Cortland - Mary Lee Sandusky passed away peacefully on April 22, 2026. Born June 21, 1954, she was the daughter of the late Leona (Muller) and Andy E. Sandusky. She grew up in Struthers and graduated from Struthers High School. She continued her education at Youngstown State University, where she earned a B.S. in Education, majoring in elementary education and reading. Afterward, Mary Lee attended Kent State University, earning a Master's in Education with a focus on reading, and later earned her Ph.D. in Literacy.

She began her teaching career at Champion Local Schools and LaBrae Local Schools, where she taught struggling children how to read. She later became an adjunct instructor at YSU, Kent State Trumbull, and Kent State Salem campuses, teaching college students more effective reading and study skills. She eventually became a full-time professor at KSU Trumbull as a member of the English Department, teaching undergraduate courses in reading and literature, as well as graduate courses in Literacy Education.

In 2004, Mary Lee was honored as an Outstanding Professor at KSU Trumbull. In addition to teaching, she attended and presented at numerous local, state, and national literacy conferences and provided reviews for textbooks undergoing revisions. Upon her retirement, Mary Lee was granted the honor of Professor Emeritus.

In addition to her successful career, she loved reading, needlepoint, and crafting. As an avid reader, she participated in book club discussions with her friends and enjoyed movies and theater, particularly musicals.

She was very thankful for her sister Lynda, her family, and her long-time friends—one of whom she had known since kindergarten. She deeply appreciated all their joy and love throughout her life. She is survived by her loving and wonderful sister Lynda and numerous cousins: Barbara (Dan, deceased) Delisio, Jim (Brenda) Gioppo, Scott Sandusky, Jennifer Sandusky, and William Sandusky. Preceding her in death were her parents, several aunts and uncles, and her cousins Nick (Peggy) Gioppo, Anthony "Skip" Gioppo, and Michael Sandusky.

A Mass will be held in her honor on May 1, 2026, at St. Nicholas Church in Struthers, OH, at 11:00 AM. Following the service, she will be laid to rest at St. John's Cemetery in Lowellville, OH, alongside her parents.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in memory of Mary Lee Sandusky to the Beatitude House Scholarship (www.ursulinesistersmission.org), St. Vincent de Paul (https://svdpmahoning.org), or a charity of your choice.

This obituary may be viewed and condolences sent at www.ClementeFuneralHomes.com.

Beatitude House Scholarship
Web: http://www.ursulinesistersmission.org

St. Vincent DePaul Society
317 Via Mount Carmel Avenue, Youngstown OH 44505
Tel: 1-330-746-4004
Web: http://svdpmahoning.org