Mary Lee Jarrett

Obituary For Mary Lee Jarrett

It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Mary Lee Jarrett, a beloved daughter, wife, mother, and esteemed member of her community, peacefully passed away on February 6, 2026, at the age of 73. Mary was born on October 15, 1952, in Sharon, Pennsylvania, and spent her life dedicating herself to her family and her career. She leaves behind a legacy of love, strength, faith, and remarkable accomplishment.

Mary was the beloved wife of Fred Jarrett of Youngstown. She was a devoted mother to her two children, Tamera Jarrett (Earl Cato) of Youngstown and Jacques Jarrett (Krista Jarrett) of Massachusetts. She was also a cherished stepmother, grandmother, and great source of love to her many nieces, nephews, and grandchildren, all of whom brought her immense joy and purpose.

A woman of deep faith, Mary was a dedicated member of the Seventh-day Adventist Church. Her spirituality guided her life and shaped the compassion and grace she showed to everyone she encountered. Mary was truly special to those who loved her—angelic in spirit, articulate in speech, and gifted in expression.

Mary was a trailblazer in both her professional and creative pursuits. She made history as the first Black female agent at Allstate, breaking barriers and opening doors for others to follow. She also worked at a WPIC AM/FM Radio at the age of 18, where her voice and insight reached and inspired many. A gifted writer, Mary, authored several novels, including A Fractured Mind, showcasing her extraordinary ability to communicate with depth, intelligence, and heart.

She was a proud graduate of Farrell High School and carried her love of learning and storytelling throughout her life. As a lover of literature and communications, Mary also taught adult reading within the community. Above all, Mary treasured time with her family and especially enjoyed caring for and nurturing her grandchildren.

In 2022, Mary underwent a heart transplant, a testament to her incredible strength, resilience, and will to live. Her journey was marked by courage and grace, and she remained a source of inspiration through every challenge. Over the past year, Mary fought a hard battle with health complications. Throughout it all, Mary showed remarkable strength, grace, and unwavering faith. She held on for as long as she could, until she could fight no more, and the Good Lord lovingly called her home.

Mary’s life was a beautiful reflection of faith, perseverance, love, and creativity. She was preceded in death and lovingly welcomed home by her parents, Willie and Olivee Friday; her sisters, Bertha Friday Haywood and Arlene Friday; and her brother, Willie Friday Jr.

Mary will be deeply missed and forever remembered by all who were blessed to know her. “I have fought a good fight, I have finished my course, I have kept the faith: Henceforth there is laid up for me a crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous judge, shall give me at that day.” — 2 Timothy 4:7

Mary will be remembered not only for her professional achievements but for her warmth, generosity, and unwavering spirit. Her life will be honored on Thursday, February 19, 2026, with a 10:00 AM public viewing at the Redeemed Sanctuary Ministries, 120 Elm Street, in Sharon PA. The Celebration of Life Services will begin at 11:00 AM with Pastor Jeff Baskins as the officiant and Pastor Derrick Moffett as the eulogist.

After the committal ceremony, Mary will be laid to rest among the serene estate of Oakwood Cemetery. Mary’s legacy will continue to inspire and uplift those she touched, as her spirit remains woven into the lives of her family and friends. In this moment of reflection, we remember a woman who exemplified kindness, resilience, and unwavering love.

At this time of intimate need and personal loss, the family of Mary Lee Jarrett elected to entrust the Ministry of Comfort & Care, along with Transitional After-Care Arrangements to the J. E. Washington Funeral Services, 2234 Glenwood Avenue, Youngstown, Ohio, 330.782.8500.

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