Mary Beth Zakany, of Columbus, formerly of Zanesville

Mary Beth Zakany, of Columbus, Ohio, left this world for a better one on Saturday, September 19, 2026.

Although she did not often speak openly about her faith, Mary Beth trusted Jesus as her Lord and Savior. Those who knew and loved her can take comfort in knowing that she is now in her heavenly home—healed, whole, and at peace.

Daughter of Albert Dale and Estelle Silva Zakany, Mary Beth’s mother always called her a “miracle baby.” Born with a condition that required surgery when she was just five days old, Mary Beth began her life overcoming challenges. Her sister remembers Christmas Eve in 1959, when Mary Beth, only weeks old, came home and was amazed by the Christmas lights and the angel atop the tree. Even as a baby, she brought joy and delight to those around her.

Mary Beth had a special gift for making every gathering memorable. Friends and family will always treasure the meals she prepared, especially her famous guacamole. She also had a talent for creating beautiful flower arrangements and an incredible eye for detail when planning and decorating catering events. Mary Beth didn’t simply prepare food—she created experiences filled with beauty, warmth, laughter, and love.

She was a devoted fan of her Cincinnati Bengals and Cincinnati Reds and was especially well known for her fantasy football parties. These gatherings were another expression of what came so naturally to Mary Beth: bringing people together. With good food, football, laughter, and friendship, she made her home a place where people wanted to be.

On Thursday, September 3, Mary Beth entered hospice care because she wanted to spend her remaining time surrounded by her family, friends, and her beloved Australian Shepherd, Bentley. She spent her final days with the people and companion she loved most, creating one final season of precious memories together.

Mary Beth is survived by her sister, Charlotte (Jeff) McCray; her brothers, Albert Dale (Suze) Zakany, Michael Zakany, Jeff Zakany, and David Zakany; and numerous nieces, nephews, cousins, and dear friends.

Mary Beth’s life demonstrated the simple but powerful things that matter most: loving others, giving generously, creating beauty, sharing what you have, and making people feel welcome. She put her whole heart into the things she loved and, most of all, into the people she cared about.

Mary Beth will be deeply missed, forever loved, and always remembered for the joy, beauty, generosity, and love she brought into the lives of so many.

To sign the online guestbook or leave a personal note of condolence please visit www.hilliscombsfh.com

A Celebration of Life will be held for family and friends in November.
You can honor Mary Beth’s life by donating to the Mid Ohio Food Bank.
https://mofc.org/get-involved/find-food/