Cecelia Jane Borrelli Gorman, age 93, of Willoughby, passed away July 10, 2017, at home surrounded by her family.
She was born September 11, 1923.
Cecelia “Ceal” was a beloved wife to Hugh for 69 years; devoted mother to nine children, Christopher (dec.) (Angie), Kathy Sparks (Andy), John (Jennifer), Anne Johns (Richard), Mary Jane Kirbus, Nancy Jean, Barbara Seitz (James), Cecelia Kysela (Jerry), and Edward (dec.) (Marney); a loving and wise grandmother to 14; great-grandmother to five; and cherished aunt to many.
Ceal lived a life devoted to her faith, family, and friends. She was a member of Immaculate Conception Church since birth, and celebrated her marriage to Hugh there as well. Over the years, the Gorman home was a gathering place for the “cousins” and the neighborhood kids, who would play sports all year or swim in the pool while she shared a few of life’s lessons (along with her dry humor). Some of her favorite sayings were: “If you don’t have a good time, it’s your own fault!” and “If you have a good book, you always have a friend.” On Sundays, she prepared feasts authentic to both her Italian and her husband’s Irish heritages for all the family and friends who stopped by. (And she made the best homemade iced tea around!)
Her quiet, dignified demeanor reflected her strong character and served as an example to her children teaching them perseverance, endurance, the value of hard work, integrity, and compassion for others. Ceal volunteered for many organizations throughout her life; and served as a poll worker for the Democratic Party for over 40 years. She and her husband enjoyed many activities together including bowling and traveling. She relished her walks with neighbor friends and lunchtime visits with her nieces. She was a voracious reader and always had a good recommendation to share!
Cecelia was preceded in death by her parents, Chris and Lucy Borrelli; sisters, Delphi Cimaglio, Edith Elia, Jerry Cole, Sophie Toomey, and Anita Barbiere; and brothers, Michael and William. She also leaves sister, Lillian Fillipi; and sisters-in-law, Annette Borrelli and Betty Ann Gorman.
The family thanks Grace Hospice in Mentor for their kindness and loving care.
Cecelia’s memorial mass will be at 10:30 a.m. Thursday, July 13, at Immaculate Conception Church in Willoughby. The internment will be at Mentor Cemetery with her family.
Online obituary at www.MCVfuneralhomes.com.