Barbara Ellen DeCesare

Barbara Ellen (Long) DeCesare, age 77, passed away peacefully at her home in Smithfield, Ohio, on January 24, 2026. She was born on March 22, 1948, in the state of Washington, to Joseph and Tora Long, who preceded her in death.

Barbara was the beloved wife of Edward J. DeCesare, with whom she shared 57 years of marriage. Together, they built a life rooted in family, faith, and devotion to one another.

She was a loving mother to her three children: Edward J. (Bud) DeCesare III (wife Anne) of Smithfield, Ohio; Jennifer DeCesare of Wheeling, West Virginia; and Amanda (Eric) Petrucci of Moundsville, West Virginia.

Barbara was a proud and devoted grandmother to her seven grandchildren—Mavrick, Kaylee, Abby, Penelope, Domenic, Mario, and Gabriella. She truly shined in her role as “Grandma,” a title she wore with joy and pride.

In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her sister, Susan Long, and her nephew, Daniel Flick.

She is survived by her siblings: Anna (Rudy) Puskarich, Beverly (Robert) Panepucci, and David (Martha) Long, along with many cousins, nieces, and nephews.

Barbara spent many years as a trusted in-home child caretaker, lovingly supporting families in her community.

She was a faithful member of the Jehovah’s Witnesses, attending the Cadiz Congregation and previously the Steubenville Congregation, where she formed lifelong friendships that meant a great deal to her.

Barbara loved to travel and had a deep passion for genealogy, spending countless hours preserving her family history—a reflection of how deeply family meant to her.

She will be remembered for her loving heart, quiet strength, and unwavering devotion to those she cherished. Her legacy lives on through the many lives she touched and the family she loved so deeply.

Friends and family are invited to a memorial service held at The Wintersville/ Steubenville Kingdom Hall of Jehovah 's Witnesses 962 Two Ridge Road Wintersville, Ohio on Saturday February 7 2026 at 2 pm. A Celebration of Barbara's Life will immediately follow the service at St. Florian Hall 286 Luray Drive Wintersville, Ohio.

To leave a condolence visit www.schuetzfuneralhome.com