Mary Kathleen Hess

Mary Hess, born June 14, 1934, passed away peacefully on January 25, 2026. How does one describe the life of a 91-year-old woman who lived a long and full life? Words can never fully capture it, but Mary was a woman of deep faith, quiet strength, and genuine kindness. A devoted Catholic, she lived her life guided by faith, compassion, and service to others. Her beliefs were not just something she practiced on Sundays, but something she carried into every part of her life-as a wife, mother, teacher, and friend.

She was the beloved wife of Frank Hess, with whom she shared more than 70 years, 68 of them in marital bliss. Together, they built a life rooted in love, commitment, and faith, facing life's joys and challenges side by side.

Mary was a loving mother to her son, William Hess, and his wife, Susie, and to her daughter, Tracey Golden, and her husband, Randal. Family meant everything to Mary. She took great pride in being a grandmother to her two grandsons, Roberto and Michael, and she found special joy in her role as great-grandmother to Julia Hess, who held a very special place in her heart.

For many years, Mary devoted herself to Catholic education, teaching grade school at Mary Help of Christians in Fairborn, Ohio. Teaching was more than a job to her-it was a calling. She was patient, gentle, and encouraging, and she touched the lives of countless children, including Bill and Tracey, her own children. Many of the children and families remembered her long after they left her classroom.

Born the middle daughter, Mary grew up between her eldest sister, Joan Garr, and her youngest sister, Margaret Stedman. The bond of family shaped her throughout her life, and she remained a steady, caring presence to those she loved.

Mary also knew how to enjoy life's simple pleasures. She loved spending evenings with friends, sharing a glass of wine, good conversation, and laughter. Those moments-quiet, unassuming, and full of warmth-reflected who she was at her core.

Mary Hess will be remembered for her unwavering faith, her gentle spirit, her dedication to teaching, and the deep love she held for her family and friends. Her presence will be missed more than words can express, but her legacy lives on in the lives she touched and the love she gave so freely.

While suffering from Alzheimer's, Mary handled her illness with grace, finding strength through faith and through the true love of her husband, Frank, and her family. Tracey would lie in bed with her, reading Mary's journals back to her, occasionally catching a glimmer of recognition in Mary's eyes from the words Tracey read-the words Mary herself had written down so many years ago. Frank's patience, love, and devotion never wavered as he lovingly cared for Mary, waiting quietly and tenderly as even the simplest tasks took longer and longer for her to complete. In the end, Frank held her hand, loving her and caring for her until the very last moments.

Beloved wife of Frank Hess for almost 70 years. Loving mother of Bill Hess (Susie) and Tracey Golden (Randal). Caring grandmother of Roberto Hess and Michael Hess, and cherished great-grandmother of Julia Hess. Dear sister of Margaret Stedman (the late Irv), the late Joan Garr (Peter), and sister-in-law of Kay Hannan (the late George). Also survived by many nieces and nephews.

Private services will be held with the family.

In lieu of flowers, donations in Mary's memory may be made to the Alzheimer's Association.