Mary Rose Romito

Mary Rose Romito (née Sirna), age 96, of Bedford, Ohio, passed away peacefully on April 19, 2026, surrounded by her loving family.

Mary was the beloved mother of Gina Alesci (partner Dave Bania) and Lisa Barrett (Pat). She was a treasured grandmother to Gabrielle Alvarez (Carlo), Brigette Alesci, Frank Alesci, Alexandra Barrett (Steve Balcer), Patrick Barrett (Lauren), William Barrett (Meghan), and Daniel Barrett. She was a cherished great-grandmother to Joseph Leonhardt, Nicolas, Roma, and Gemma Alvarez, Aiden Alesci, Layla Roush, Emilia and Isabella Barrett, and Liam Barrett.

She is also remembered as the former mother-in-law of Jim Alesci, a loving “Mom” to Doris Marzolo, a special friend to Dee Pelligrino,a devoted aunt to Joe and Jeff, as well as an aunt to many, great-aunt, godmother, and friend to many.

Mary was preceded in death by her husband, Gilsole (Shine) Romito; her longtime partner, Sam Davis; her parents Giuseppe and Benedetta Sirna; and her brothers, Sam, Steve, and Leo (Beverly) Sirna.

Mary was born on October 1, 1929, in Detroit, Michigan, and grew up in Cleveland before making Bedford her permanent home in 1953.

Mary enjoyed an extraordinary career as a Realtor in Northeast Ohio spanning more than 65 years. A true pioneer for women in the industry, she was among the few full-time female agents in the 1960s and 1970s. Known affectionately as “Million Dollar Mary,” she consistently exceeded $1 million in annual sales at a time when the average home price was approximately $20,000. With more than 50 transactions a year and numerous regional awards, she built her reputation on professionalism, honesty, kindness, and respect.

Beyond her professional accomplishments, Mary formed deep and lasting relationships with her clients, often becoming like family and sharing in their milestones across generations. Even years into retirement, many remained in close contact with her.

Above all, Mary considered her greatest achievement to be her family, who were her life’s greatest blessings and her pride and joy.

Family and friends are welcome to St. John Funeral Home, 923 Broadway Ave, Bedford, OH 44146 on Thursday, April 23, from 2:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Friday, April 24, at St. Mary’s Church, 340 Union Street, Bedford, Ohio 44146 at 11 A.M. (Please meet at church and no flowers at church, please). Burial to follow at All Saints Cemetery in Northfield, Ohio.