Mary E. DeCola

Mary Elizabeth, a longtime resident of Worthington, passed away at the age of 92 on June 3, 2023. She was born on September 22, 1930, in Bellaire, Ohio to first generation Italian Americans John and Norina Colicchia. She enjoyed a wonderful life amongst all those who had traveled together to America and lived in the same neighborhood.

While in high school, Mary began working for an accountant in town and then became full time with the company once she graduated. She always loved bookkeeping.

After marrying, Mary eventually moved to Columbus and started a family. With three young daughters, she and her husband, Eugene (deceased) started a custom home building company that was quite successful. Along with these responsibilities, Mary also found time to garden, was an active member with the Worthington Historical Society, an enthusiastic member of the Worthington Songsters and was always an avid reader.

Later in life, Mary was fortunate enough to have traveled the world – one of her passions. In addition, she enjoyed her time as a volunteer reading tutor at Worthington Park Elementary, was a volunteer for 20 years at Riverside Methodist Hospital and was involved with her many friends from the Worthington water aerobics program – but family always came first. Indeed, Mary led a very full life.

She is now survived by daughters Diana (Tommaso) Ciaffoncini, Christal (Andrew) McDowell and Suellen (Gary Perrine) DeCola, grandchildren Giannalisa (Dave) Schumer and Alessandro (Michelle) Ciaffoncini, and great-grandchildren Luca and Tosca Schumer.

Our family is very grateful for the compassionate care our mother received at Riverside Methodist Hospital.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Alzheimer’s Association, the American Stroke Association or the charity of your choice.

Viewing is scheduled for Thursday, June 8th at 10am-11:30am, followed by a procession to Resurrection Cemetery for the funeral service at Noon. A reception will follow at Schoedinger Funeral Home.