Mary Addison

Mary LaVonne Addison, beloved daughter, sister, aunt, and friend, passed away peacefully on July 25, 2025, at The Ohio State University Ross Heart Hospital in Columbus, Ohio, surrounded by love and compassion.

Born on February 20, 1962, in Columbus, Mary was the cherished daughter of the late Robert T. and LaVonne (Ryan) Addison. She graduated from Whetstone High School in 1980 and went on to dedicate her life to working in food service, where her loyalty, warmth, and personality left lasting impressions on all who knew her.

Mary began her career with SEDESCO cafeteria in downtown Columbus. Rain, snow, or sunshine, she navigated the COTA bus lines faithfully, never missing a day of work. In 2014, she brought her radiant energy to the Graceland Kroger cheese shop, where she found a community that embraced her unique gifts.

Proud of her Irish heritage, Mary celebrated St. Patrick’s Day with boundless joy and spirit. A devoted Ohio State Buckeye fan, she could often be seen in scarlet and gray, cheering on her team during Skull Sessions. Her love of travel frequently took her beyond Ohio, though her heart always felt at home in Harmony, Minnesota, among her aunts, uncles, and cousins. Mary loved going to Patrick J’s on High Street, where she became a part of the family.

Mary will be forever remembered for her contagious laugh, straight-forward honesty, and deep empathy for individuals with special needs. Her life was enriched by many whose kindness and support helped her thrive with a sense of acceptance, purpose, and belonging. Organizations such as the Center of Vocational Alternatives and other disability-focused programs played a meaningful role in her life. To many, Mary was more than a friend—she became family.

A longtime member of Our Lady of Peace Catholic Church, Mary’s faith grounded her. She also adored her cat, Chester, who brought her daily companionship and joy.

She is survived by her loving brother Frank (Tanyce) Addison of LaRue, Ohio; her nieces and nephews: Jami (Dustin) Rawlins of Marion, Valerie (Matt) Addison-Ward of Westerville, Halie (Aaron) Ross of Westerville, Lane (Megan) Addison of Richwood, and Lathan (Stephanie) Addison of Mokena, Illinois. Mary was also a proud great-aunt to Carter, Hillary, and Madeleine Rawlins; William and Alexander Ward; Bennett, Caroline, and Adaline Ross; David and Emma Addison; and Cayden and Cameron Addison.

She was preceded in death by her parents and her great-niece, Addison Ward.

Mary's final act of generosity was the donation of her organs—an ultimate testament to her caring heart.

The Addison family extends heartfelt thanks to the cardiology team, nurses, and staff at The OSU Ross Heart Hospital for their outstanding care.

A memorial service will be held 11:00 am Tuesday, August 5, 2025 at Schoedinger Worthington, 6699 N. Hight St. Worthington, OH 43085. Burial to follow at Resurrection Cemetery. Pastor Tanyce Addison will officiate.

Mary touched countless lives with her humor, honesty, and love. You are warmly invited to share your stories and memories of Mary on this memorial website, celebrating how she made a difference in your life.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in Mary’s honor to a charity of your choice.