Mary Ann Barber, 77, of Oregon, Ohio, a beacon of kindness, compassion, and unyielding spirit, passed away peacefully Thursday, September 18, 2025 surrounded by the love she so freely gave to others.

Born October 29, 1948, Mary Ann was raised in the heart of Toledo's Old West End on Glenwood Avenue, where her spirited energy first took root. She spent most of her life in Oregon, Ohio, building a legacy of warmth, laughter, and devoted service that touched countless lives.

A faithful member of Rosary Cathedral and later Saint Ignatius Church, Mary Ann's education at Ursuline Academy and the Mercy School of Nursing ignited her calling to heal. As a Registered Nurse, she dedicated over 40 years to healthcare at Toledo and St. Charles Hospitals, earning her the title of "legendary nurse" for her quick-witted care and genuine interest in every patient she met. Her compassion knew no bounds—she was the one who remembered your story, cracked a joke to ease your fears, and always had time for one more conversation.

Mary Ann's vibrant life extended far beyond the hospital walls. A pillar of the recovery community for over 30 years, she forged deep bonds with friends who became family, celebrating every milestone with her infectious humor and energetic zest. She was spiritual and spirited, always up for a good time—whether belting out tunes at Cedar Point, her favorite amusement park, or savoring her quirky guilty pleasure: a peanut butter, mayonnaise, and banana sandwich. Quick-witted and endlessly curious about people, Mary Ann approached life with a loving, funny heart that made the world brighter.

She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Pete; son, Pete Jr.; father, Norman; mother, Carmelita; sisters, Diane and Helen; and brothers, Larry and John. Mary Ann is survived by her cherished son, Brandon Barber; brother, Dennis; and a host of devoted nieces, nephews, and friends whose lives she enriched immeasurably.

The family will receive friends at the Eggleston Meinert & Pavley Funeral Home, Oregon Chapel, 440 S. Coy Road Thursday, September 25, 2025, from 11:00 am until 12:45 pm and process to St. Ignatius Catholic Church, 212 N. Stadium Road, Oregon for Mass of Christian Burial at 1:00 pm. Interment: St. Ignatius Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests donations in her memory toa nursing scholarship fund, recovery support organization, or local health initiative. Mary Ann Barber didn't just live—she illuminated. Her laughter echoes on, her love endures, and her spirit invites us all to embrace life with the same joyful fire. Rest in peace, dear Mary Ann—you were, and always will be, one of a kind.