MANSFIELD: “Being a mother is not about sacrifice; it’s about making a choice to give everything you have, without expecting anything in return.” – Unknown
Veronica Faye Hart, beloved mother, age 94, of Mansfield passed away May 17, 2023 in her home surrounded by her family.
She was born November 4, 1928 in Mansfield to the late E. Harold and Marguerite A. (Newlon) Davies and graduated from West High School in 1946 in Cleveland to return to Shelby a year later. She had a deep love for her hometown and cherished the community that shaped her.
After high school, Veronica’s passion for the performing arts led her to pursue studies in vocal performance at the College of St. Francis in Joliet, Illinois. Her exceptional talent caught the attention of prestigious institutions, and she was accepted into The Julliard School of Music. However, Veronica made the difficult decision to decline the offer and return to Ohio to start a family. Her dedication and commitment to her loved ones always took precedence in her life.
Veronica first encountered Herbert Harold Hart at the age of fifteen. When Herb declared he was going to marry her one day her response was a simple “OK”. God had a hand in placing them together, though their courtship was not without obstacles as Veronica was raised in a staunch Catholic home, and Herb was not Catholic. On August 6, 1949, Veronica married the love of her life, they embarked on a journey together, raising a beautiful family of seven children. Veronica found great joy and fulfillment in being a devoted wife and mother. She poured her heart and soul into creating a loving and nurturing home for her children. It was a vocation she considered both rewarding, as it brought her immense happiness and a sense of purpose.
While caring for her children, Veronica joined the workforce when her youngest child entered grade school. She worked as a copy editor for WMAN and later as a secretary for the State Department of Education, retiring in 1990. Her professional career allowed her to showcase her organizational skills and attention to detail, traits that she seamlessly translated into her roles as both a mother and an employee.
Veronica’s exceptional musical talent was evident in her soprano vocals, particularly in the realm of opera. Although she chose not to pursue a professional singing career, she found solace and expression in her role as the Choir Director at St. Mary of the Snows Catholic Church. For an impressive 45 years, she led the choir with grace and passion, guiding them to create beautiful harmonies that uplifted the spirits of all who listened. Her family remembers with joy her rendition of “Ave Maria” and “O, Holy Night” at midnight mass each Christmas. Her dedication to her faith and her church community was unwavering, and she found great joy in sharing her musical gifts with others.
Beyond her love for music, Veronica had a wide range of interests. She had a natural affinity for the outdoors and embraced the beauty of each season. A family tradition was picnics, no matter what the season. During winter, she enlivened the children with the thrill of sledding and the elegance of ice skating. Summers were spent fishing and boating on Lake Erie at Huron, creating cherished memories with her family at Cedar Point. Veronica’s love for nature extended to hosting on her front porch and enjoying the simple pleasures of outdoor gatherings.
In addition to her musical talents and outdoor pursuits, Veronica was a skilled and creative individual. Crocheting was one of her cherished pastimes, and she lovingly crocheted afghans for her children and grandchildren. Her handiwork brought warmth and comfort to her loved ones, a tangible expression of her love and care.
Veronica was known for her disciplined and organized approach to life. She instilled these values in her children, supporting and encouraging them in their sports endeavors from elementary school to college. She was their number one fan, cheering them on from the sidelines and providing unwavering support in all their endeavors.
In her spare time, Veronica cultivated a thriving garden, tending to it with care and nurturing it to yield bountiful harvests. She also embraced the art of canning, preserving the fruits of her labor to enjoy throughout the year. Veronica’s resourcefulness extended beyond the garden as she became adept at making the most of her finances, ensuring that every dollar stretched.
Simply stated, above all, Veronica cherished the gift of family.
She is survived by her children and their spouses Larry and Pam Hart of Mansfield, Leon and Bonnie Hart of Ashland, KY, Louis and Diane Hart of Mansfield, Leroy and Sum Mi Hart of South Korea, Linda and Michael Riley of Charleston, SC, Delores “Spook” and Larry Boals of Mansfield, and Lorraine and Doug Swanger of Ashland; 19 grandchildren, and numerous great grandchildren and great great grandchildren; a sister Wanetta Finn and many nieces, nephews and extended family members.
In addition to her parents and husband, she was preceded in death by two grandsons Jarrod Maynor and Kevin Maynor; and a sister Redonna Metzger.
The family will receive friends Tuesday May 23, 2023 from 4-7 pm in the Marion Avenue Snyder Funeral Home where a vigil service and time for family and friends to share will begin at 7 pm. Mass of Christian burial will be offered Wednesday at 11 am in St. Mary of the Snows Catholic Church, 1630 Ashland Road, Mansfield, Ohio, 44905. Burial will follow in Windsor Park Cemetery.
Memorial contributions to Gentiva Hospice or the Muscular Dystrophy Association may be made through the funeral home.
To leave a message of support to the family please visit :www.snyderfuneralhomes.com
Funeral home : Snyder Marion Avenue
