Mary E Talerico

Mary Elizabeth (Rook) Talerico went home to be with the Lord on Wednesday September 27, 2023 with her family by her side. Mary was born on March 18, 1936 in Utica, New York to Elmer and Mary Rook. She graduated from Utica Free Academy in 1954. Mary married the love of her life, Carmen, on July 31, 1954 and went on to raise their family of 5 children and move to Columbus, Ohio. As their family grew, Mary enjoyed spending time with her many grandchildren and great-grandchildren. She was a member of St. Phillip the Apostle Church and Holy Spirit Catholic Church for many years. Mary enjoyed gardening, swimming, watching the Buckeyes, working on ceramics, and crocheting. Over the years, she created many beautiful ceramic pieces and Afghan blankets for her family and loved ones. Mary is preceded in death by her husband Carmen, sister Shirley Knapp, brother James Rook, brothers-in-law Harold Knapp and Paul Smith, sister-in-law Yvonne Rook, and angel great-grandbaby Valentine. She is survived by her loving children Tina (James) Cassell, Theresa Talerico (Tim Stair), Joseph Talerico, Carmen (Joanne) Talerico, and Lisa (Jack) May; 12 grandchildren, 20 great-grandchildren. Also survived by brother and sister-in-law Elmer and Barbara Rook, sister Margaret Smith, and many loving nieces and nephews. Her family will receive friends Sunday 2-5 pm at Schoedinger East, 5360 E. Livingston Ave. with memories of Mary and a prayer service at 4:30 pm. Mass of Christian Burial 11 am Monday, October 2nd at Holy Spirit Catholic Church, 4383 E Broad St, Columbus, OH 43213. Fr. William Arnold, Celebrant. Private burial to follow at St. Joseph Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, please consider a contribution to the American Heart Association or Holy Spirit Catholic Church.