Mary Jean "Jean" Cappiello, 86, Ridgway

Mary Jean "Jean" Cappiello, 86, of Ridgway, PA, passed away Thursday afternoon, November 5, 2026, at her residence in Ridgway, following a brief illness.

She was born March 3, 1940, in McKeesport, PA, a daughter of the late James Harold and Mary Ellen Muir Eagen. Jean experienced the loss of her father at the young age of 12, a difficult time in her life that helped shape the strong and determined woman she would become. On February 7, 1959, at St. Leo Catholic Church, she married Carmen J. Cappiello, who preceded her in death.

Jean was a graduate of Ridgway High School. She devoted many years to being a wife and mother, working hard to raise her five children and making sure her family always came first. She was a familiar and enthusiastic face at her children's sporting events throughout their school years and continued to follow Ridgway Elker athletics long after her own children and grandchildren had graduated. She took great pride in supporting her children and cheering on the Pittsburgh Pirates, Penguins and Steelers.

After raising her family, Jean began another chapter of her working life as a corrections officer at the Elk County Jail, where she worked for several years until her retirement. She was also a member of St. Leo Catholic Church.

One of Jean's greatest gifts was her love of cooking and bringing people together around the table. She learned the art of Italian cooking from her husband's grandmother and carried those traditions on throughout her life. Her kitchen was a place where everyone was welcome, and no one ever had to worry about leaving hungry. Sunday dinners were especially important, with a large kettle of homemade sauce, meatballs, and spaghetti always ready to feed family and friends. She was also a wonderful baker. Whether it was family, friends, or someone simply stopping by, Jean always made room for one more at her table. Her home was a gathering place filled with good food, conversation, and love.

Above all, Jean cherished her family. She especially treasured time with her grandchildren and great-grandchildren, who brought her tremendous happiness and pride. She worked hard, loved deeply, and created a family tradition of togetherness that will continue for generations. Her family will forever remember the meals shared around her table, the encouragement she gave from the sidelines, and the warmth of knowing there was always a place for them in her home.

She is survived by her children, Patrick (Carla) Cappiello of Ridgway, Mary (Steve) Piurkoski of Ridgway, John "Bo" (Fuzzy) Cappiello of St. Marys, David (Karen) Cappiello of Ridgway, and Carin (Josh) Wickett of Ridgway; 17 grandchildren and 25 great-grandchildren, with two additional great-grandchildren expected; and a brother, James H. (Veronica) Eagen, II, of Poolesville, MD.

In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband, Carmen J. Cappiello, and two sons who passed away in infancy.

A private viewing and graveside service was held at St. Leo Catholic Cemetery in Ridgway, PA, on Saturday, November 7, 2026, at 11:00 AM, with Rev. Justin P. Pino as Celebrant.

A Mass in memory of Jean will be celebrated at St. Leo Magnus Church on Friday, January 1, 2027, at 12:00 PM, the Solemnity of Mary, the Holy Mother of God.