Barbara Leary

Warren - Barbara Leary, of Warren, Ohio, and Bay St. Louis, Mississippi, died peacefully on September 1, 2024, in the loving company of her children. She was 69 years old.

Barb was born on May 14, 1955, to Edward and Helen Esposito, in Levittown, Pennsylvania. In 1968, the Esposito family relocated to Warren, Ohio, where Barb was raised. She was a graduate of John F. Kennedy High School.

Barb is survived by her four children, Daniel (Julie) Gisewhite, Dr. Rachel (Mike) Gisewhite Svatek, Joseph (Amy) Gisewhite, and Gary (Krista) Bridgens, Esq.; her siblings Patrick (Debbie) Esposito, Janet (Edward) Hazboun, and Michael (Marlea) Esposito; her 10 grandchildren; many nieces, nephews, and dear friends; and her partner, George Turner.

Preceding her in death were her parents, Edward Esposito and Helen Esposito, as well as her brothers Edward Esposito, Jr., and Paul Esposito.

Barb was known for her fierce and adventurous spirit, her ability to inspire joy in others, and her creativity. She loved being a grandmother (“Gia”), spending time near the beach, making art, and helping others in need. Barb modeled the wonder of selflessness in every aspect of her life—she believed everyone deserves a chance at living a life full of love. She was a deeply devoted mother and an attentive friend.

Barb was quickly accepted by her community in Bay St. Louis, Mississippi, and she cherished the memories she made there. She traveled often between Mississippi and Ohio with her puppies, Roscoe and Bella, making sure that she was always present wherever she was needed the most. She also traveled often to new and interesting destinations, collecting seashells and sand from beaches across the world. She was genuinely kind, always funny, and persistently loving.

It has been said that everybody dies, but not everybody lives. Barb not only lived boldly and beautifully, but empowered others to do the same. Barb lit the world around her with a bright, cheerful light; and while her light was extinguished too soon, her family and friends will never know darkness because they knew Barb.

Per Barb’s request, there will be no public services. While Barb contributed to many charities and causes throughout her life, she was most passionate about causes in support of vulnerable women and children. Accordingly, memorial contributions may be made in her honor to Someplace Safe (Family & Community Services, Inc.) at 1370 Tod Ave NW, Warren, OH 44485 (https://fcsserves.org/program/someplace-safe/).

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