Obituary of Mary Jude English

ASHTABULA - Mary Jude English, 76, died peacefully in her home on January 30, 2020, after a long battle with Parkinson's disease. Mary Jude was born and lived in Ashtabula most of her life. She began her undergraduate education at Notre Dame College and received her teaching degree from Kent State University. Her graduate work continued at New York University. Mrs. English was a valued employee of the Ashtabula Area City Schools for 30 years, touching the lives of countless students and staff. She started her teaching career at Station Avenue and was at State Road Elementary when she retired. She was a member of the Ashtabula Country Club, Redbrook Boat Club, the Elks Club and several other social organizations. Playing Bridge with family and friends was a treasured activity. Mary Jude married David English in 1968; they were married for 52 years. She raised two boys and was extremely close to her nieces, daughter-in-law, and grandchildren. Mary Jude loved her numerous dogs and cats (some rescued), and enjoyed tending to her landscaping and flowers. Shamrock plants were a staple in her home to reflect her Irish heritage. An avid traveler, Mary Jude made several trips abroad, including Ireland and Italy. The St. Patrick's Day celebration and parade in Cleveland was a yearly highlight. She enjoyed the beaches of Siesta Key with her family. No travel was trivial to her – driving to Mentor on shopping excursions was one of her favorites. As much as she liked to travel, the most memorable adventures to her were the perfectly planned holiday events she hosted over the years with family and friends. Mary Jude will be greatly missed by many. Survivors include husband David, son James (Faye) of Worthington, OH, and son Edward of Ashtabula. Grandchildren Joseph and Benjamin English, also of Worthington. Brother Pete (JoAnn) Welch of Ashtabula. Nieces Maureen (Tom) Surbella of Ashtabula, Peggy (J.P.) Ducro of Ashtabula, and Mollie (Mark) Barnes of Highland Heights. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held 10 AM Saturday, February 8, 2020 at St. Joseph's Church Our Lady of Peace Parish, 3330 Lake Avenue, Ashtabula. Fr. John Mulqueen will preside. Burial will be in St. Joseph Cemetery with her parents at a later date. A special thanks to The Hospice of the Western Reserve, as well as her devoted care givers, Jamie and Heather. Contributions may be made to Hospice of the Western Reserve, 1166 Lake Avenue, Ashtabula, OH 44004. ZABACK-WILLIAMS-DUCRO FUNERAL HOME, 500 West Prospect Road, Ashtabula is in charge of arrangements. www.ducro.com