Mary Lee DeStefano

After a very brief illness, Mary Lee DeStefano passed away peacefully in her home surrounded by loved ones on Sunday, February 8, 2026.

Mary Lee was born in Dayton, Ohio, but loved to call Ridgway Pennsylvania her home.

A strong and vibrant woman of community, Mary Lee was an avid supporter of the Ridgway Public Library and a member of The Footlighters, our local theater group. She was also the business owner of Mary Lee Designs and an advocate for women's rights her entire life. Perhaps one of the things she was most known for was her magnificent flower garden - a sight to behold.

Mary Lee's largest source of strength came from her amazing group of friends to which she gave and received love until the end.

Mary Lee was preceded in death by her loving husband, Michael, and her dear daughter-in-law, Julie DeStefano. She is survived by her two sons, Mike and Christopher, her daughter-in-law, Cheryl Oknefski, her sister and brother-in-law Kathryn and John Chamless, her grandchildren, Jessica and Luke Sidaris and her great granddaughter, Ashlynn.

Mary Lee will be missed by all that experienced her love for life and her infectious laughter.

Visitation will be held at Krise Funeral Home, on Sunday, February 15, 2026, from 2:00 PM until 4:00 PM.

Afterwards,  a Celebration of Life for Mary Lee DeStefano will be celebrated on Sunday, from 4:00 PM until 6:00 PM, at Krise Funeral Home Social Hall, 130 Center Street, Ridgway, PA 15853.

Burial will follow at St. Leos Cemetery.

Memorial contributions may be made to The Ridgway Public Library, 329 Center Street, Ridgway, PA, 15853, http://www.ridgwaylibrary.org/donate.html.

Krise Funeral Home and Cremation Services, 130 Center Street, Ridgway, PA 15853 is handling the services and online condolences may be offered to the family at www.krisefamilyfuneralhomes.com.