Born: January 31, 1946

Died: February 21, 2009

Services: Services will be on Thursday at 10:30 a.m. at the Clemente Funeral Home in Struthers.

Visitation: Friends may call on Wednesday from 5 to 8 p.m. at the Clemente Funeral Home in Struthers.

Boardman - Esther Mae Conway, 63, passed away peacefully at Forum Health Northside Medical Center on Saturday Feb. 21, 2009 following a courageous battle with Multiple Sclerosis and other diseases. She was surrounded by family, friends and colleagues who all knew her as a genuinely caring and giving soul. Her final gift was tissue samples to the Cleveland Clinic for the study of MS. After graduation from Cardinal Mooney High School in 1964, Esther received an associate degree in dietary from Youngstown State University and supervised the kitchen at Diamond Head Nursing Home. She later graduated from St. Elizabeth School of Nursing and served as a nurse at Northside Hospital's Labor and Delivery Unit. There were many patients and doctors who could atttest to her tireless devotion to mothers and babies. She was the happiest when holding a healthy newborn and welcoming it to the world. After retirement, she continued her commitment by training student nurses in nursing homes. She also learned American Sign Language and volunteered with the Easter Seals Society. Esther's love also extended to animals, her rescued dog and cats. She was an ardent supporter of area animal shelters and did much to find homes for strays. Esther's parents, Ardis M. (Lockhart)and Alvin C. Conway, both preceded her in death. She is survived by a younger brother, Robert Franklin (Sharon) Conway. She also leaves behind numerous nieces and nephews, as well as a longtime companion, Clair Szalay.

Memorials: In lieu of flowers, the family suggests that contributions be made in her name to the family for charities of Esther's choice.

Location: Clemente Funeral Home, Struthers (Map)