Mary Jean Lay, 76, went home to be with her Lord and Savior on February 19, 2020, surrounded by family members.
¶Mary was born in Akron and graduated from Ellet High School in 1961. She lived in Cuyahoga Falls from 1965 until 2005 when she moved to Columbus. She returned to Cuyahoga Falls in 2019.
¶Mary was a homemaker until 1980. She was a devoted Girl Scout Leader for many years, for all levels, and was awarded the Thanks Badge. She was a role model for many young women. She was active in PTA and was PTA President at Bode School. She was a volunteer at Akron City Hospital. She attended The University of Akron.
¶Mary was thrilled to graduate from Hixson's School of Floral Design. She was a gifted Floral Designer. She worked in several local floral shops. She realized her dream of having her own floral shop, Buds in Bloom, in Cuyahoga Falls. She also taught floral design classes.
¶Mary enjoyed playing cards, especially pinochle. She loved decorating for Christmas. When weather permitted, you would find her sitting in the sun reading books. Fall was her favorite season. She followed many sports including Ohio State Football, Cleveland Browns, ice skating and tennis. She eagerly awaited each Olympics.
¶She was kind, loving, giving and loved to laugh. She will be greatly missed by her family and friends.
¶She was preceded in death by her mother Mary Bowder Thomas; grandparents William and Sarah Bowder and Ethel Thomas. She is survived by her daughter Sheri Payne; daughter Julie Lamere; granddaughter Erica (Michael) Moritz; and great-granddaughters Janessa and Jordyn.
¶Cremation and a private Celebration of Life have taken place. Memorials may be made in Mary's name to Faith Bible Fellowship Building Fund, 126 W. Overdale Dr., Tallmadge, Ohio 44278.