Mary Jo Purney

Mary Jo Purney, age 81, passed away peacefully on Monday, May 12, 2025, at the Laurels of Massillon.

Born on December 20, 1943, in Kentucky, Mary Jo was the beloved daughter of the late Joseph and Mary Kisela. She was a proud graduate of Perry High School.

Mary Jo was deeply devoted to her faith and her community. She began her service as a teacher at St. Joan of Arc and later became a longtime member of Richville United Church of Christ. Her dedication to teaching confirmation classes at Richville spanned over 30 years, leaving a lasting impact on generations of young people.

Professionally, Mary Jo worked in the catalog department at JCPenney for over 15 years before joining Gasser Jewelers, where she served in shipping and receiving until her retirement.

She was preceded in death by her parents and her beloved son, John Joseph Purney.

Mary Jo is lovingly remembered by her husband, John E. Purney; her daughter, Terri Purney; her son, Richard (Diane) Purney; her grandson, Nathan Johnson; her great-grandson, Tytan; and her brother, Michael Kisela.

Her warmth, faith, and commitment to others will be dearly missed and fondly remembered by all who knew her.

Friends and family are invited to gather in remembrance on Friday, May 16, 2025, from 11 :00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. at Richville United Church of Christ, located at 6125 Richville Dr SW, Navarre, OH 44662. A funeral service honoring Mary Jo's life will follow at 12:00 p.m., with Pastor Will Stewart officiating. Interment will follow at Westlawn Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Richville United Church of Christ in memory of Mary.

Arrangements are entrusted to Kreighbaum Sanders Funeral Home, 4041 Cleveland Ave. S., Canton, Ohio 44707. Family and friends may offer condolences and share memories at:

www.sandersfuneralhomes.com

(330) 484-2525