Mary Ellen Leightenheimer, 69, of Rosemount, Ohio, went to her eternal home to be with her Lord & Savior on Thursday, May 14th, 2026, surrounded by her loving family at SOMC Inpatient Hospice Center.
Mary was born on September 17th, 1956, in Portsmouth, Ohio, to the late Glen and Betty Ann Neal. She was preceded in death by her brothers, Gene “Bub” (Pat) Picklesimer, and her sisters, Jane (Jack) Munion, Bonnie (Dick) Goddard Lanham, Patty Aills, and a brother in infancy. Also, her father and mother-in-law, William “Bill” & Virginia Leightenheimer.
Mary is survived by her devoted husband, Alan, whom she married on July 22, 1978. She always said that Alan was the love of her life and her “rock”. Alan made it his mission to care for Mary until the very end. He never let go of her hand or left her side. Alan reports that the longest they were ever apart was 7 days in 48 years of marriage.
Mary brought two children into the world, Andrea (Jason) Bailey and Cody Leightenheimer. They provided her with three precious grandchildren who adored her: McKenzie Bailey, Eli Bailey, and Hattie Leightenheimer. She was a constant presence in their lives and leaves a void that will never be filled.
Mary is also survived by several siblings: Brenda (Buddy) Hunt, Sandy (Jerry) Osborne, Robert (Patty) Neal, and her baby sister Ruthi (Darrel) Musick.
Mary was a 1975 graduate of East High School. She began work at Scioto Memorial Hospital (1975-78), where she worked as a Nurse’s Aide. She also worked as an office manager for Beltone Hearing Aid Center (2003-17), where she found her true purpose in connecting with the community and providing memorable and valuable care to their patients. She would have told you that her most important job was being a stay-at-home mother. She excelled at being present for her children and grandchildren. She loved volunteering at Clay Local Schools with the PTC and Clay Varsity Cheerleaders. She was at every sporting event and cheered for every Panther athlete.
Mary was a devoted Christian, having been saved at 16 years old. She attended Rubyville Community Church. Mary loved her dear pastors, Cal Ray Evans and Brian Bear, along with everyone at their church. Over the years, Mary volunteered countless hours in her church and community. She was a Sunday School teacher and youth leader. She spent many years working alongside her dear friends, Michael and Denise Combs, helping to promote Southern Gospel music in the tri-state area. She helped reach countless people with the good news of Jesus Christ. She was proudly known as Michael Combs #1 fan and had the jacket to prove it!
Mary also loved the Christmas season. Her children and grandchildren affectionately referred to her home as Santa’s workshop due to all her Christmas decorations. You always felt like a kid again during Christmas at her house! It was truly magical. She and Alan held a yearly family party that was the event of the season and kept the family close. She often dressed as Mrs. Claus, with Alan by her side as Santa, to help spread Christmas cheer and the true meaning of the season, Jesus’ birth.
Mary loved BIG and always had an encouraging word to share. She was a prayer warrior for so many. These facts never wavered; they were ever present even as she faced a brave battle with cancer. She did so with steadfast faith, holding to the promises of her Lord. Her faith has now ended in sight.
The family would like to thank SOMC Hospice for the wonderful care they gave to Mary.
A Celebration of Mary’s Life will be held at 1:00 p.m. on Tuesday, May 19, 2026, at the BRANT FUNERAL HOME IN SCIOTOVILLE with Pastor Brian Baer and “Son-in-Love” Jason Bailey officiating. Interment will be in Sunset Memorial Gardens. The family will receive guests at Brant’s from 5:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m. on Monday, May 18th and from Noon until 1:00 p.m. the day of the service.
Memorial contributions may be made to SOMC Hospice in Mary’s memory.
