Mary Grace Zaninelli

Mary Grace Zaninelli of Weirton passed away unexpectedly at her home on the morning of January 13, 2022. She was 97. Mary was born in Avella, PA, on June 8, 1924, one of four children born to Frank and Clara Zatta Gagliani. After graduating from Avella High School, Mary worked in Cleveland, Ohio for a short period. On May 17, 1947, she married Duquesne University graduate, former Pittsburgh Steeler and Army veteran of World War II, Silvio “Zan” Zaninelli. Zan worked for plant protection at Weirton Steel and Mary took care of their home. They were blessed with a son and two daughters: six grandchildren ten great-grandchildren, and three great-great grandchildren. Mary cared about people all the time. She always wanted to make sure everyone was fed, and no one left her home hungry. She loved to bake and was known as a great seamstress. In her earlier years she enjoyed bowling with her husband. In her later years, she enjoyed watching Family Feud, and completing puzzle books. Most of all Mary will be remembered as a caring loving wife mother and grandmother. In addition to her parents, Mary was sadly preceded in death by her husband Silvio “Zan” Zaninelli on January 29, 1979, her daughter, Denise Zaninelli on October 17, 2017, and her son, David Zaninelli on November 6, 2021; her two brothers, Joseph, and Louis Gagliani; and her sister, Eleanor DeAngelis. She will be remembered with love by her daughter, Wendy (Doug) Russell, with whom she lived with for the past seven years; her daughter in law, Carol Zaninelli; her six grandchildren, ten great grandchildren, and three great-great grandchildren. Private visitation and funeral will be held at the Greco Hertnick Funeral Home on Saturday. Pastor Jim Barnhart will preside. She will be laid to rest next to her husband at Saint Paul’s Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be made in Mary’s name to your favorite veteran’s organization. Share tributes and memories at www.grecohertnick.com