Barbara Mecozzi

Barbara Ann (Hayden) Mecozzi, a cherished wife, mother, grandmother, sister, and friend passed away peacefully with loving family by her side at the age of 88 on Saturday, September 21, 2024. A longtime resident of Gahanna Ohio, Barbara was born in Columbus Ohio on August 16, 1936 to the late Joseph Roger Hayden and Barbara Marie (Morten) Hayden.

Barbara graduated from Bexley High School in 1954 and Miami University of Ohio in 1958, where she received a Bachelor’s Degree in Education. At Miami University she developed life-long friendships with her roommates and continued to attend alumni events throughout her lifetime. After graduation she taught 5th grade in Dayton Ohio. While living in Dayton she met the love of her life, Alfred Roger Mecozzi. They were married in Bexley Ohio on June 18, 1960. After relocating back to the Columbus area, Barbara taught in German Village. Once her children were older, she taught preschool at Gahanna Stonybrook United Methodist Church, where she was also a member. Following her retirement from teaching, Barbara worked with the Columbus Metropolitan Library, both Whitehall and Gahanna branches.

Barbara was an avid reader and enjoyed gardening, watching and feeding wildlife in her yard, doing crossword puzzles, and spending time with friends and family. When she traveled, Barbara enjoyed day trips throughout Ohio and vacationing on Sanibel Island, Florida, which held a special place in her heart. She was an avid sports fan of The Ohio State University and enjoyed watching NASCAR racing. Friends have commented that Barbara was great at staying in touch through supportive and positive cards, letters, and phone calls.

She is survived by her loving husband of 64 years Alfred Roger "Al" Mecozzi and their incredible and beautiful children and grandchildren: Mark Allen (Debbie) Mecozzi of Gahanna and their children Meredith and Olivia Mecozzi; Kelly Marie Johnson of Gahanna and her daughter Lacey Johnson; and brother Jay Hayden of Kaaawa, Hawaii.

Barbara was preceded in death by her father Joseph Roger Hayden and her mother Barbara Marie (Morten) Hayden.

Following cremation, a graveside service for family and friends will be held on Saturday, November 2nd at 10:00AM at Mifflin Township Cemetery, Gahanna.

Those wishing to share a memory of Barbara or to express condolences to the Mecozzi family may do so with the "Add a Memory" button below.

Arrangements entrusted to Schoedinger Northeast Funeral Home, who are honored to care for Barbara and her family.

A special thanks to the nurses and staff at Mount Carmel Hospice who helped care for Barbara.