Marian Shirley Macaluso

MARIAN SHIRLEY MACALUSO, 87, of Weirton, WV peacefully and unexpectedly passed away on Thursday, January 18, 2024. Born on October 7, 1936, in Burgettstown, PA, she was one of five children born to Guilio and Delia Carnali Bernola. A graduate of Follansbee High School, Class of 1955, she earned the title of the best dancer in her class. After high school, Marian embarked on a career at WSTV in Steubenville, where she crossed paths with Michael “Mickey” Macaluso, an Air Force Veteran working in radio and television sales. Their love story unfolded, leading to a marriage that was based on love of family. Sadly, Mickey passed away from cancer on August 28, 2015. Marian’s professional journey included roles at Weirton Steel and assisting Dr. John and Dr. Tranto. However, she became widely known in the community as “Gram” for owning and operating a children’s daycare in her home, leaving a lasting impact on all the children and their parents, who were fortunate to experience her kind and gentle nature. Marian found joy in simple pleasures. She enjoyed watching Hallmark Movies and playing cards with friends. Yet, her greatest joy was found in her family. Marian adored her children, their spouses, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. Marian’s deep love for family was the cornerstone of her life. Her dedication to her family not only defined her character but also left an enduring legacy that continues today between her children and their families. A Christian mother, Marian nourished her faith as a parishioner of Sacred Heart of Mary Roman Catholic Church, where her faith played a central role in her life. In addition to her parents, and her husband, Marian was preceded in death by her sisters Joann Bernola and Bonita Boni, and her loyal, gentle, and spoiled rescue dog Buddy. Marian is survived by her two sons, Michael S. Macaluso, Jr. (Teresa) and Brian Macaluso (Judy); daughters Jennifer Banda (Mark) and Julie Lesho (Jamie); her brother John Bernola (Ann) and sister Kathleen Bernola; grandchildren Erin, Nicholas, and Christian Banda, Marissa and Brandon (Julia) Macaluso, Ross (Cicely) Macaluso, and Alayna (Tyler) Ewusiak ; great-grandchildren Sienna Layne Ewusiak and Lucia June Macaluso and numerous nieces and nephews. Friends and family gathered on Sunday, January 21, 2024, at the Greco Hertnick Funeral Home, Weirton. Mass of Christian Burial was held Monday, January 22, 204, at Sacred Heart of Mary Roman Catholic Church, with Very Rev. Dennis R. Schuelkens, Jr., V.E. presiding, assisted by Deacon Vince Olenick. She was laid to rest with her husband at Saint Paul’s Cemetery. Share tributes at www.grecohertnick.com.