Suzanne M. Scarpitti

Suzanne Mary Scarpitti, 79, passed peacefully into the arms of the Lord on April 15, 2026. A woman of deep faith, boundless generosity, and endless energy, Suzanne spent her life in loving service to her church, family, community, and all those fortunate enough to know her. Suzanne lived as she believed - with grace, purpose, and an open heart.

Suzanne was born on October 26, 1946, in Akron, Ohio, to Josephine (nee Rocci) and Carl Scarpitti, both of whom preceded her in death. She was a longtime resident of Fairlawn, Ohio, and most recently a resident of The Village of St. Edward. Suzanne spent her early years in Akron before her family moved to Sebring, Ohio, where she graduated from Sebring McKinley High School in 1964. She earned her bachelor of arts and master's degrees from Youngstown State University in early childhood education, which she put to use as a classroom teacher and eventually an elementary school principal, positively impacting the lives of countless children and families throughout her long career in education. One of her greatest accomplishments was starting the Our Lady of the Elms Preschool, and she stayed in touch with many of her former preschool and elementary students throughout her life.

After retiring from education, Suzanne was a dedicated employee for both SVN Summit Commercial Real Estate Advisors and the Highland Theatre. She was always in the know about the latest blockbusters and gave great movie recommendations. She found joy in volunteering at St. Ed's Assisted Living and on behalf of many other worthy causes. She also loved attending plays, tutoring children, and cheering on her nieces and nephews at their sporting events. Suzanne was an avid Scrabble player throughout her life, and routinely beat friends and family at the game. She always knew if a word would count or not, never needing to reference the game's dictionary.

Suzanne's Catholic faith played a prominent role in her life. She was a longtime member of St. Hiliary Parish in Fairlawn, where she served as a reader, greeter, and Eucharistic minister for homebound parishioners. She served on the Parish Council for more than a decade. Suzanne was also an Associate of the Dominican Sisters of Peace in Akron, and cared deeply for the sisters. Every Wednesday, she volunteered at the convent, answering phones and calling bingo for the sisters after lunch.

Suzanne's love for her family was immeasurable, and she devoted herself to nurturing her loved ones, always putting others before herself. Her spirit of generosity and selflessness will forever be remembered. In addition to being a loving sister and aunt, Suzanne was a loyal friend. She formed deep connections and was a constant source of support and encouragement. Her friends knew they could count on her, and her absence will leave a void that cannot be filled.

She leaves behind five brothers and two sisters: James (Melody) Scarpitti, Christina (Michael) Plaks, Barbara (Terry) Leggett, David (Laurie) Scarpitti, Joseph (Nancy) Scarpitti, Paul (Brenda) Scarpitti, John (Kathy) Scarpitti. She also leaves behind many cousins and friends who were a treasured part of her life. She was beloved by her 14 nieces and nephews: Shawna, Mike, Gina, Nikki, Joseph, Mallory, David, Dan, Erica, Maria, Sarah, Nick, Carly, and Joey. She held a special place in her heart for the Pirollo Family: Eric, Tia, Jack, Dominic, and Stella, and her dear friend Helen Hohlefelder.

Suzanne was a shining light, known for her unwavering love, kindness, and compassion towards others. Her caring nature touched everyone she met, making them feel valued and cherished. She will be remembered for her deep faith, boisterous laugh, and the way she lived every aspect of her life with joy and love. She will be deeply missed by all who were blessed to know her.

May she rest in the peace she so faithfully sought for others.

A celebration of Suzanne's life will be held on Wednesday, April 22, 2026, at St Hilary Parish, 2750 West Market Street, Fairlawn, OH, with visitation from 9:30-11:00am and mass immediately following.

In lieu of flowers, donations in Suzanne's memory may be made to St. Hilary Parish at https://sthilarychurch.org/foundation/ .