🎓 Law school shuffle

Carol S. Durbin

Carol Sue Durbin, 61, of Cuyahoga Falls, passed away on April 2, 2025, after a life that included time in California and Florida before returning to Ohio. A gymnast and sports enthusiast, she particularly enjoyed Florida's sunshine, beaches, and bike riding, while also collecting Yankee candles. Carol deeply loved her children, grandchildren, and her dog Buddy. She is survived by two brothers, her daughter Danielle, son JT, and five grandchildren, with memorial services scheduled for April 15 at the Billow FALLS Chapel.

Joanne Martin

Joanne Martin, 84, passed away on February 12, 2025. Born in Akron, Ohio, she graduated from Garfield High School and earned an associate degree from the University of Akron while taking evening classes. She worked at General Tire and Rubber Company before joining Ohio Edison Company for 28 years, where she made history as the company's only female officer from 1972 to 1989. After moving to Stark County in 1990, Joanne owned Martin Business Concerts and worked for local accounting firms until her retirement in 2009.

Tyson McGary

Tyson Theodore McGary of Twinsburg, Ohio passed away unexpectedly on April 1, 2025, leaving behind his son, father, sisters, grandmother, nephew, and nieces, while being preceded in death by his mother, brother, grandparents, and cousin. He was an enthusiastic fan of the Cleveland Browns, Ohio State Buckeyes, and Boise State Broncos. Tyson cherished spending time with his son, taking him fishing and on bike rides, and supporting his sporting activities. Instead of flowers, the family has requested donations to a college fund for his son, with a celebration of life to be scheduled at a later date.

Ryan James Lawson

Ryan James Lawson, age 53, of Atwater, Ohio, died peacefully on April 7, 2025. Born in Shaker Heights, Ohio to Ronald and Bonnie Lawson, Ryan is survived by his wife Stefanie, daughter Grace, parents, sister Tanya, and numerous nieces, nephews, and friends. A graveside service will be held on April 9, 2025, at Crown Hill Cemetery in Twinsburg, Ohio. Ryan's family will cherish his memory and deeply miss his presence in their lives.

Nancy Kay Bell

Nancy Kay Bell, born May 21, 1943, in Akron, Ohio, passed away on April 8, 2025. After graduating from Revere High School in 1961 and attending modeling school in Chicago, she devoted herself to her family while also working with special needs children and participating in various community activities. Nancy enjoyed spending time with loved ones and had a passion for decorating and bargain hunting. She is survived by her three children, four grandchildren, and two great-grandchildren, with services being held at the Billow FALLS Memorial Chapel.

Cheda Irene Heaton

Cheda I. Heaton, 50, passed away on April 3, 2025, after a life dedicated to community service with organizations like Relay for Life and the Haven of Rest. Born in Cuyahoga Falls on July 13, 1974, she was a 1992 graduate of Central Hower High School and later earned degrees in transportation and social work from the University of Akron. Known for her independent spirit and love of travel, Cheda was a devoted aunt who cherished her family and her beloved Yorkie, Minnie. Her Celebration of Life will be held on July 13 at the Norton Community Center.

Cheda Irene Heaton

Cheda I. Heaton, 50, passed away on April 3, 2025, after a life dedicated to community service and education. Born in Cuyahoga Falls in 1974, she graduated from Central Hower High School and earned two degrees from the University of Akron. Cheda was known for her independence, love of travel, and commitment to charitable causes including Relay for Life and the Haven of Rest. She is survived by her mother Betty, brother David, extended family, and numerous close friends, with a Celebration of Life planned for July 13 at the Norton Community Center.

James George Gray

James G. Gray, 80, passed away peacefully on April 7, 2025, after being born in Somerset, Pennsylvania on December 1, 1944. He was predeceased by his daughter Carrie Anne, daughter Lorie Bodalski, and his parents, and is survived by his wife Bonnie, son Jim, and numerous family members. Jim worked at Precast Plant for 20 years before becoming self-employed in concrete work, and enjoyed playing golf and traveling. Private family services will be held to honor his memory.

Karen Sue Fee

Karen Sue Fee, 81, passed away on April 6, 2025, and is now reunited with her parents and brother. She was a woman of strong faith who loved teaching crafts, cooking, painting, and outdoor activities. Karen leaves behind her husband of 59 years, Robert, along with her three children, four grandchildren, four great-grandchildren, and several siblings. A memorial service will be held on April 12, 2025, at Hecker-Patron Funeral Home in Uniontown, with Pastor David Arnott officiating.

John James Scullin

John "Jack" Scullin died peacefully on April 3, 2025, after being born in Painesville, Ohio to Daniel and Margaret Mary Scullin. He spent forty years in the Hospitality Industry, making connections across multiple states including Florida, Tennessee, Kansas City, Arizona, and Ohio. An avid golf enthusiast, Jack enjoyed both playing the sport and watching it on television. He is survived by his wife Cheryl, brother Dr. Daniel Scullin, stepson Jeff Peters, and numerous other family members, with a celebration of life to be announced following his cremation.

Christopher J. Varga

Christopher James Varga, known as "Chris," "Dad," "Pop," "Gipa," or "Vargs," passed away unexpectedly on March 29, 2025, leaving behind his wife of 23 years, Sonya, his children, and grandchildren. Born in Richmond Heights, Ohio, and a graduate of Bowling Green University, Chris returned to Ohio in 2006 where he devoted himself to his family and became a passionate supporter of the Cuyahoga Falls High School Marching Tiger Band. A small family celebration of life will be held at a later date, with donations to the Cuyahoga Falls Marching Band suggested in lieu of flowers.

Tracy Lynn Ryan

Tracy Lynn Ryan, a 57-year-old lifelong Akron resident, passed away on April 5, 2025. She was passionate about outdoor activities such as hiking, kayaking, and working with flowers, which complemented her career at Schultz Landscaping. Tracy is survived by her daughter Alysha, son Robert, five grandchildren, mother Pamela, brother Dennis, and significant other Mike Horning. Visitation will be held at Redmon Funeral Home on April 9, with a service at Stow Presbyterian Church on April 10, followed by burial at Moore's Chapel Cemetery.

Samuel "Sam" Shavers

Samuel "Sam" Shavers, 84, of Akron, Ohio, died on April 7, 2025, after battling cancer. Born in 1940, he served as a mechanic in the U.S. Army from 1958 to 1962 before establishing S&S Truck and Tractor Repair, which he operated for over 60 years. Sam is survived by his partner Mysheirdie Wilson, several children, nine grandchildren, three great-grandchildren, and his brother Robert. Visitation and funeral services will be held on April 10, 2025, at Sommerville Funeral Services, with military honors to follow at a later date.

Anthony J. Petrone

Anthony J. Petrone, 45, passed away on April 6, 2025, leaving behind his father, son, grandson, sister, and brothers. Born in 1979, he worked in radio broadcasting for many years and was known for his ability to bring people together. Anthony was a member of St. Eugene Catholic Church and the Knights of Columbus, finding great joy in becoming a grandfather. Funeral services will be held at Redmon Funeral Home on April 10 followed by Mass at St. Eugene Catholic Church on April 11, with burial at All Saints Cemetery.

Linda Mae Shuey

Linda Mae Shuey, 81, of Akron, passed away on March 31, 2025, after being born there on September 28, 1943, to the late Walter and Lois Shuey. A graduate of Ellet High School, Linda worked at Scott Molders of Kent during her career. She was predeceased by her brother Warren, along with several aunts and uncles. Linda is survived by her brother Ranald, niece Heather, and numerous cousins across multiple states. Following cremation, she will be laid to rest at Hillside Memorial Park.

Theodore Jeno Szor

Theodore Jeno Ször, born in Budapest, Hungary, passed away in Copley, Ohio on April 7, 2025, surrounded by family. After fleeing Hungary with his wife Susan in the 1950s, they built a life in Akron with only $1 in their pocket. Theodore worked diligently throughout his career at various companies including Diamond Match, Goodyear Aerospace, and Lockheed Martin. He enjoyed a routine life with good food, beer, naps, and travel, while remaining active in the Hungarian Benefit Society and his church. He is survived by his son, daughter, grandchildren, and a special friend, with a celebration of life planned for May 4th at The Hungarian Club in Barberton.

Gary Wayne Poore

Gary W. Poore passed away on March 31, 2025, and is survived by his wife Ginger, brothers David and Thomas, his pets, and many friends. He proudly served as a Corpman in the United States Navy, which he considered the most significant period of his life. A private celebration of his life will be held by invitation only. Funeral arrangements are being handled by Adams Mason Funeral Home, which can be reached at (330) 535-9186.

Peggy A. Smaldino

Peggy A. Smaldino, 81, of Akron, passed away on April 7, 2025, following a life dedicated to her family and faith as a member of St. John's Catholic Church. After retiring from Metro RTA, she devoted herself to creating special memories with her grandchildren through baking, fishing, and various adventures. Peggy was an enthusiastic NASCAR fan who also worked at Nelson Ledges Racetrack. She is survived by her daughter Tammy, step-daughter Deb, "bonus" daughter Debra, numerous grandchildren, great-grandchildren, siblings, and other family members.

Paul D. Crites Jr.

Paul D. Crites Jr., a kind-hearted and spirited individual, passed away on April 2, 2025, at his home. Born in Akron on December 30, 1987, he was known for his strong work ethic, generous nature, and vibrant personality that brought joy to those around him. Paul is survived by his wife Felecia, son Gavin, father Rick Smith, parents Paul and Carrie Crites, and numerous other family members and beloved pets. His legacy of compassion and kindness will be celebrated at a visitation on April 17th at Newcomer Funeral Home.

William A. "Bill" Lloyd

William "Bill" A. Lloyd, 71, passed away on April 6, 2025, after being born in Barberton and residing in Mogadore for many years. He retired from Elmwood Crankshaft after 15 years and was a member of Suffield Fellowship Church. Bill was predeceased by his parents and three siblings, and is survived by his children, six grandchildren, a great-grandson, and three siblings. A memorial service will be held on April 26, 2025, at Campfield-Hickman-Collier Funeral Home, with attendees encouraged to wear Hawaiian shirts in his honor.