Denise M. Skowron

YOUNGSTOWN — Denise M. Skowron, 69, passed away peacefully, Sunday, Sept. 22, 2024, surrounded by her children and loving family.

Born Nov. 17, 1954, to Edward Sullivan and Shirley (Theodore) Ostavitz, Denise was a devoted daughter, wife, mother and community advocate.

A graduate of Rayen High School, Denise dedicated her life to enriching the lives of others. She served as commissioner at the Youngstown City Parks and Recreation Department, drove for Carrington South Rehabilitation and trained commercial drivers at Community Busing. Her passion for helping others extended to fostering children and active membership in St. Patrick Church.

Denise’s creativity shone through her quilting and baking. She shared her talents with family, friends and neighbors, spreading joy through her famous Christmas cookies.

Denise married Ronald Skowron on Nov. 26, 1977. Their testimony of love is proven by celebrating 43 years of togetherness prior to Ron’s death on April 16, 2020.

Cherishing her memory are her children, Veronica Skowron of Youngstown, Jonathan (Sara) Skowron of Poland and Phillip (Sarah) Skowron of Boardman; four grandchildren, Lydia, Carter, Benjamin and Patrick Skowron; sisters, Shirley (Frank) Bevins, Margaret Manion, Patricia (Jesse) Alvarado, Marianne Badger, Elizabeth Stein, Michelle (James) Burrell and Denise (Joe) Serensky; brothers, Sean (Kelly) Sullivan, Lawrence (Eric Wood) Sullivan and Michael (Janna) Reynolds; brother-in-law, Stan Stevens; and dear friend, Susie (Anthony) Nicolaidis of Murphy, Texas. She was adored and loved by more than 100 nieces, nephews and cousins.

Greeting her at the gates of Heaven were her parents and husband; as well as her brothers, Ed and John Sullivan; and sister, Merrilee Stevens.

Calling hours will be 4 to 7 p.m. Friday, Sept. 27, 2024, at Higgins-Reardon Funeral Home-Boardman-Canfield Chapel, 3701 Starr's Centre Drive. 

A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated 10 a.m. Saturday, Sept. 28, 2024, at St. Patrick Church.

Denise’s legacy of love, compassion and community service will be deeply missed but never forgotten.