Mary Rankin

Mary Eleanor Rankin passed away peacefully on May 12, 2025, at the age of 94. Born on August 24, 1930, in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, Mary was the beloved wife of her high school sweetheart, Chuck "Bud" Rankin. They were married in Pennsylvania before moving their young family to Cleveland and eventually settling in Akron, where they built a life centered around love, family, and faith.

Mary was a devoted partner in every sense of the word. As Bud worked to establish what would become the family business, she stood faithfully by his side, offering steady encouragement and unwavering belief in his vision. Whether quietly helping behind the scenes or choosing the middle seat on long car rides just to be closer to him, Mary's love was constant and wholehearted. The strength of their partnership, grounded in loyalty, humility, and shared purpose laid the foundation for a legacy that continues to support and inspire future generations.

Together, they raised four children, each a testament to their parents' love, guidance, and enduring values, talented, intelligent, and resilient individuals who continue to honor Mary and Bud's legacy in their own distinct ways. The Rankin home was a place of warmth, laughter, and genuine hospitality, where all felt welcome. As the family grew over the years, Mary made it a priority to keep everyone connected. Each summer, she rented a lake house where children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and extended family gathered for swimming, boating, white-water rafting, and memory-making that spanned generations.

Mary had a remarkable way of turning everyday moments into lasting traditions. She hosted "GG's pizza nights," where there were always enough different kinds of pizza to ensure everyone was happy, no matter their age or preference. Her Christmas Eve brunches became a beloved family staple, and her toffee earned legendary status. She delighted in puzzles and board games with her grandchildren, always making time for laughter and conversation.

Her Christmas gifts were always full of surprise and fun. Each year, Mary found creative ways to tuck money into her grandchildren's presents, turning gift-giving into a joyful game. One especially memorable year, she hid cash in a roll of Lifesavers candy, a playful tradition that is still spoken of with great affection.

Mary believed deeply in the power of education. She earned degrees from Lakeland Community College and the University of Akron, spent her career teaching elementary school, and later tutored adults learning English as a second language, quietly shaping lives through education and kindness.

An accomplished golfer, Mary enjoyed friendly competition at Bear's Paw in Florida, Wemouth Country Club in Ohio, and on her cherished ladies' trips to Peek'n Peak in New York. A gifted seamstress, she sewed everything from her daughter's wedding dress to tiny Barbie clothes for her granddaughters. She volunteered with The Giving Doll, creating handmade outfits for children in need, and later crafted hundreds of reusable gift bags for family and friends. During the pandemic, she even sewed masks for her neighbors at St. Edwards, embodying her lifelong spirit of generosity.

Mary was preceded in death by her husband, Chuck "Bud" Rankin Sr.; her daughter, Peg (Mike) Bingham; and her siblings, Theodus Carroll, Jim Foster, and Al Foster. She is survived by her children, Kate (Mike) Hearn, Chuck (Kathleen) Rankin, and Ellen (Matt) Mitchell, as well as 11 grandchildren and 19 great-grandchildren.

Her legacy lives on in the family she cherished, in the traditions she began, and in the quiet ways she showed love: through a warm meal, a handmade gift, a kind word, or a shared laugh. Mary will be deeply missed and forever remembered.

A celebration of Mary's life will be held at a later date. The family extends its heartfelt gratitude to the staff at St. Edward's in Fairlawn and Northeast Ohio Hospice for their compassionate care