Portage County obituaries for March 17-18

Ann E. O’Connell

Miss Ann E. O’Connell , 72, of Hiram Village died on Sunday, February 16, 2025 after heroic efforts by both Hiram EMS Service and the staff at University Hospital.

On Wednesday February 13 Ann suffered a massive stroke then transported to University Hospital, Cleveland. Upon admission CT scans were completed that evidenced Ann suffered a massive brain bleed that was inoperable, thus terminal. Prior to her passing Ann’s neighbors secured the UH Hospital Chaplin, who administered THE SACRAMENT OF “LAST RIGHTS”.

Ann E. O’Connell was born on November 28, 1952 in Washington DC to parents Marjorie (Furry) O’Connell and Francis Aloysius O’Connell, Jr., Esq. Ann an only child graduated in 1970 from SOLEBURY SCHOOL in New Hope, PA., and later Ann was a student at Hiram College. Ann, divorced, resided in Hiram Village for the past 41 years. Ann had no children thus became devoted to her “squirrels”, in fact Ann loved all animals, but devoted almost all of her free time to the feeding and caring of the squirrels of Hiram. “Ann’s squirrels” gave her purpose, companionship and most of all Peace. Ann was an excellent pianist and was very social with all of her many friends in the greater HIRAM COMMUNITY. Ann is survived by her cousin Mrs. Marjorie Uhrich of Warminster, PA., and her “Kiddos”, her beloved “Squirrels”. Ann wished to be buried near her beloved mother’s grave in Bucks County, Pennsylvania.

Because of Ann’s resources on only $700 a month and Medical expenses in excess of $30,000, any and all contributions would be greatly appreciated. A Memorial Service is planned at HIRAM CHRISTIAN CHURCH, 6868 Wakefield Rd., Hiram, Ohio, Friday, April 4, 2025, beginning at 11:00 a.m. There will be a FREE WILL OFFERING at the Memorial service. The ADMINISTRATOR of Ann’s Estate is: Rob Dempsey, P.O. Box 304, Hiram, Ohio 44234-0304.

Susan Jones

Susan L. Jones (nee Mix) passed away on March 8, 2025, in Stow, Ohio after a battle with cancer.

Susan grew up in Chagrin Falls and graduated from Chagrin Falls High School before pursuing a career in dental hygiene. She completed the dental hygiene program at Lakeland Community College and became a licensed dental hygienist, devoting her life to helping others.

Susan’s passion for service led her to a career in mobile dentistry, where she dedicated herself to providing dental care to thousands of underserved children in schools throughout the country. She also played a vital role in the dental screening of military personnel before their overseas deployments. Later, she transitioned into clinical operations, where she shaped policies and procedures and trained newer hygienists. Her life-long commitment to ensuring access to quality dental care made a lasting impact on many lives.

Beyond her professional life, Susan found joy in tending to her beloved garden – fondly referring to it as her “stupid little garden,” though it was anything but. She poured her efforts into constantly updating and improving her homes and enjoyed interior decorating with antiques and primitive pieces. She had an eye for beauty and a talent for transforming spaces into warm and inviting places. Though she didn’t visit nearly as often as she wished, her heart was always at peace on a sandy beach by the ocean.

Above all, Susan was a devoted mother who selflessly put her children first, ensuring their happiness and success. One of her favorite roles was adoring and spoiling her two grand-dogs, Cuva and Journey.

Susan was preceded in death by her parents, James D. and Adrienne Carol, and her brother David. Susan is survived by her children, Allan and Adrienne; her siblings, James, Daniel, Robert (Sandra), Polly, Doran (Nicole) and Monica; three nephews and five nieces, and many friends.

Her kindness, love, and generosity touched countless lives. May her memory bring comfort to those who knew her.

Per her wishes, a private service for Susan’s family has been held. A celebration of life will be hosted by the family at a later date.

Nancy Jean Gill

Nancy Jean Gill, 87, of Burnsville, Minnesota, formerly of Garrettsville, Ohio was welcomed into Heaven by her beloved Stan and her Lord and Savior on Saturday, March 15, 2025, surrounded by her loving family. She was born on September 1st, 1937, in Cleveland, Ohio to the late David and Geraldine (nee Kearns) Baranyai, Sr.

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