Mrs. Mary Jo (Carusone) Showalter, 70, of Ellport beloved mother, grandmother, sister, aunt, and friend passed away peacefully on Tuesday, June 24th, 2025 at her residence.
Mary Jo was born on November 6th, 1954 in Ellwood City to the late Joseph and Sue (Bellissimo) Carusone. She is a member of the Lincoln High School class of 1975 and the Divine Grace Parish, Holy Redeemer Church. In her earlier years she worked as a cook at Ricca’s Restaurant in Ellwood City and later at Pappan’s Restaurant in New Castle. She then became the head cook at the Holy Redeemer School Cafeteria and the proud owner and heart behind Mary Jo’s catering, a cherished local business known not only for its delicious cuisine but also for Mary Jo’s personnel touch, warm hospitality, and unwavering commitment to excellence. Over the past 38 years, her food graced countless weddings, celebrations, and community gatherings, each made more special by her presence and care.
Mary Jo was deeply devoted to her family, and nothing brought her more pride than her son, Joe. Her only child, Joe is the light of her life, her greatest joy and closest companion. The two shared a special bond both personally and professionally, with Joe working closely alongside her. He will now continue to carry on her legacy, with the same heart, care, and commitment that Mary Jo infused into every dish and every event.
Mary Jo had a great passion for cooking and baking, especially her delicious biscotti’s, and enjoyed taking long rides with her husband Dan, sight seeing, and especially time spent with her family.
She is survived by her husband, Daniel Showalter whom she married on November 14th, 2004, her son and daughter-in-law, Joseph “Joey” and Erin Carusone of Perry Township, grandchildren, Luke and Gianna Carusone, sisters, Anna Engle of North Sewickley Township, Jeana (Robert) Turco of Shenango Township, and Susie (Eric) Beighey of Brighton Township, brothers, Anthony “Tony” (Jodi) Carusone of Ellwood City, and Nick (Melissa) Carusone of Perry Township, and many nieces and nephews.
Mary Jo was preceded in death by her parents, her brother Antonio Carusone in infancy, and her brother-in-law, Ray Engle.
Visitation will be held on Friday from 2-8 pm at the Samuel Teolis Funeral Home and Crematory Inc.. A mass of Christian burial will be held on Saturday at Noon at the Divine Grace Parish, Holy Redeemer Church with Father James Wehner officiating. Interment will follow at the Locust Grove Cemetery.
In Lieu of flowers, the family asks the memorial contributions in Mary Jo’s name may be made to: Lawrence County Autism Warriors.
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