Gloria C. Marconi, 88, of Akron, Ohio died Sunday, May 25, after a short illness.

Gloria's deep faith kept her strong and courageous in her final hours as it had throughout her long and joyful life. She had a strong devotion to the Blessed Mother and wished to share that devotion in her obituary via the Hail Mary. Hail Mary full of grace, the Lord is with thee. Blessed art thou amongst women, and blessed is the fruit of thy womb, Jesus. Holy Mary Mother of God, Pray for us sinners now and at the hour of our death. Amen.

Gloria was a retiree of St. Thomas Hospital. She also worked for both the Firestone Tire and Rubber Company and the Firestone Foundation. Gloria spent ten years living in New York City, where she studied classical voice. She also trained at the Cleveland Institute of Music. She was a former member of the Akron Symphony Chorus and St. Anthony Church Choir, her beautiful soprano voice was still heard every Sunday, when she attended St. Anthony Church of Akron, where she was a devoted member for more than 60 years.

Gloria is survived by her loving sisters, Delores Marconi and Mary Quick of Akron; niece, Michelle (Bill) Fromholzer of Twinsburg; great nephew and niece, Blaine and Bridget Fromholzer; and many caring friends. She was preceded in death by her parents, Dave and Fannie Marconi; and her brother, Pete Marconi.

The family wishes to thank Summa Palliative Care and The Village at St. Edwards hospice care who provided loving care in Gloria's final hours.

Mass of Christian Burial will be at 10:30 a.m. Thursday at St. Anthony Church, 83 Mosser Place, Akron. Burial will follow at Holy Cross Cemetery. Friends will be received from 4 to 8 p.m. Wednesday at Hennessy Funeral Home (corner of York and Main) 552 N. Main St. Akron. 330-376-3032.