Laura Jane Marazas

With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of Laura Jane Marazas (Lopane), who peacefully passed away on July 25, 2026, at the age of 71. Laura was born on February 23, 1955, in Akron, Ohio, where she spent much of her life building lasting friendships, raising her family, and serving her community with comfort, care and compassion.

Laura was a proud 1973 graduate of North High School in Akron and went on to earn her nursing degree from the Akron School of Practical Nursing in 1980. Nursing was more than a profession to her; it was her calling. For over 40 years, she dedicated her life to caring for others with remarkable kindness, skill, and compassion. Countless patients, families, and coworkers were blessed by her gentle spirit and selfless commitment.

Above all else, Laura treasured her family and her dog, Petey. She was a devoted wife to William Marazas and a loving mother to her children-Patrick Henderson, Nathan Henderson, Crystal (Allison) Barone, and Matthew Lopane. She was also a proud grandmother to nine grandchildren-Dylan, Chase, Jillian, Kaylee, Caitlyn, Savannah, Austin, Evan, and Dominique, and then blessed with one great grandchild-Peyton. Each of whom brought immeasurable pleasure and joy to her life.

Laura is also survived by her loving siblings; Linda Hilbert, Pam Strauss (Roger), Anthony Lopane (Fran), Sheryl Jackson (Gary), Michael Lopane (Cheryl), and Jean Lopane. Along with many nieces, nephews, cousins, and extended family members, as well as many near and dear friends who will forever cherish her memory.

She was preceded in death by her beloved parents, Patricia Bonsteel and Pasquale Lopane; her brother, Daryl Lopane; her cherished grandson, Dylan Henderson; and several beloved close friends.

Laura will be remembered for her generous heart, quiet strength, and unwavering dedication to helping and caring for others. Whether she was caring for a patient, comforting a friend, or spending time with those she loved most, she gave of herself freely and wholeheartedly. Her warmth, wisdom, and compassion will leave a lasting impression on everyone fortunate enough to know her.

Though our hearts are broken by her passing, we find comfort in the legacy she leaves behind through the people whose lives she touched and helped save-A life defined by love, service, and devotion to family and friends. Laura's memory will continue to live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved her.

We are deeply grateful to Danielle Hillman for opening her heart and home, so that Laura's family could bring her back to Ohio where she could be embraced by her cherished loved ones and receive the compassionate care, she needed during her time in hospice. Her unwavering advocacy of medical advice for Laura's care and comfort has been truly appreciated.

We'd like to send out a heartfelt thank you to both of Laura's (aka Grandma Linda's), Michigan neighbors, especially Lindsay Close and her wonderful family, for always looking out for her over the years. Your kindness, support, and willingness to help whenever she needed it, have made such a difference in her life. We are deeply grateful for your friendship and generosity.

Lastly, we'd like to extend our deepest gratitude to Jennifer Robinson, Laura's cherished best friend of over 30 years, for her exceptional comfort, care, and support. Your presence by Laura's side during her final moments was an immense source of strength and solace. For that contribution, we are truly grateful for your presence in her life.

A celebration of Laura's life will be announced by the family. In the meantime, those who knew Laura are encouraged to honor her memory by showing kindness to others, just as she did every day throughout her life.

Forever loved, forever remembered, and will forever be missed.

"Not all angels have wings; some wear scrubs, leaving pieces of their compassionate heart in every bandage, comfort, and cure."