Mary Patricia (Bordner) Zeitz, age 83 of Massillon, passed away Tuesday, August 4, 2026 at Aultman’s Woodlawn Compassionate Care Center.

She was born May 9, 1943 in Pittsburgh, PA. Mary was a retired school teacher, and had worked at several public and parochial schools in Canton over the course of her career. She also worked in adult literacy programs in Columbus. She was a graduate of Central Catholic HS. She received both her Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees from Kent State University, specializing in teaching reading. She was an early member of La Leche League and helped support the Montessori philosophy locally. She loved gardening, music, dancing, reading and spending time with her family. Mary had a special place in the hearts of many with her smile, laughter, and generosity.

She was preceded in death by her husband, James Robert Zeitz; her daughter, Mary Kathleen Zeitz; her mother, Margaret Humphrey; foster parents, Donald and Rose Shurtz; brother, William Bordner; sister, Barbara Temple; and foster grandson, Todd LeBlanc.

She is survived by daughters, Patty (Steve) Swinehart, Julie (Stuart) Beddie; and her grandchildren, Grant and Lia Swinehart.

A private mass will be held, followed by interment at St. John’s Cemetery in Canton. The family will receive visitors on Friday, August 28, 2026 from 4 to 6pm at Heitger Jackson Township Chapel, 5850 Wales Ave. N.W. Massillon, OH.

Memorial contributions may be made to Woodlawn Compassionate Care Center or the Public Broadcasting Services.

Condolences to the family may be made at www.heitger.com

Heitger Funeral Home and Crematory 330-830-0148