Mary Lou Heath

It is with heavy hearts that we share the passing of our beloved Mary Lou Heath, who peacefully left us on September 29, 2025, surrounded by her loving family. Born on March 15, 1942, Mary Lou was the cherished daughter of the late Joseph and Josephine Gentile, the dear sister of the late Anthony Gentile, and the devoted grandmother of the late Grace McBride. Mary Lou's journey began on Taylor Street in the "Old Neighborhood," a place filled with warmth, tradition, and a tight-knit community that reflected her deep Italian heritage. It was here that she met her loving husband of 65 years, Chuck, at the most unlikely of events, a softball game. Despite not being a fan of sports, Mary Lou's love for Chuck was undeniable, and together they built a beautiful life grounded in family and tradition. Her deep roots in that vibrant Italian neighborhood, surrounded by extended family and lifelong friends, including her 75+ year sisterhood with her best friend, Carol Spadoni, shaped the foundation of how she lived her life. She raised her children with the same values, instilling in them a profound respect for their heritage and the importance of family traditions. Mary Lou was the devoted mother to Lisa (Michael) Colby, Jeff (Sue) Heath, Tracy (Joseph) McBride, and Cheryl (John Metallo). She took immense pride in her grandchildren, Jaclyn, Julianne, Tony, Mike, Kayla, Sophia, Gabriella, and Joe, and her great-grandchildren, Addison, Avery, Everett, Ella, Emma and Emma. Anyone who knew Mary Lou was well aware of her pride and joy in her family, as she eagerly shared their accomplishments with all. Mary Lou built lasting friendships with a group of women that she raised her children with in the suburbs, affectionately known as “The Firestone Five.” For 55 years, they weathered the seasons of life, celebrating each other's joys and supporting each other through life’s challenges. Mary Lou had an incredible talent for creating beautiful things. She was a highly accomplished quilter, sewer, knitter, and crocheter, and her talents led her to a wonderful community of women who shared her passions and became dear friends. Together with these women, she made countless quilts as well as baby blankets that were donated to local hospitals to provide comfort to families faced with losing their newborns. One friend, who she referred to as “My Maria,” became like an adopted daughter. Her legacy of love, family, and creativity will forever be cherished, and she will be deeply missed by all who loved her.