Mary Jo Brasher

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Mary Jo Brasher, a lifelong resident of Toledo, Ohio, on April 21, 2026, at the age of 67. She passed away peacefully, surrounded by family, after a brave battle with cancer.

Born on November 29, 1958, in Toledo, Ohio to Ervin and Delphine Opaczewski, Mary was a dedicated and beloved member of her community. She was preceded in death by her husband of 44 years, Ronald Brasher and her father, Ervin Opaczewski. She is survived by her mother, Delphine Opaczewski; her children, David (Rachel) Brasher, Kevin (Kathryn) Brasher, and Jennifer (Kyle) Gable; her cherished grandchildren, Jade, Jenna, Alyssa, John, Corey, Hudson, Quinn, Bodie, Elijah, and Weston; and her great grandchild, Miguel; siblings Jim (Pat) Opaczewski, Cathy (John) Molnar, Ken (Cathy) Opaczewski, and Janice (Brian) Borger. She is also survived by many special friends and extended family members who loved her dearly.

Mary’s greatest joy and purpose in life was being the best wife and mother she could be. To help support her family, she worked faithfully in a variety of roles over the years, including at Travelers Insurance (USF&G), Pizza Hut, and Target. She later found a long-term home at UPS, where she dedicated more than ten years of loyal service.

Mary was a caring soul who could light up any room she walked into, and everyone who met her would attest to her kindness. She was quick-witted and funny, with a wonderful sense of humor, and she had a deep love of music. She never missed her children’s sporting events or school activities and enjoyed baking special treats for family and friends. Mary loved trips to Put-in-Bay and Traverse City, taking boat rides on her parents’ boat and attending gatherings at the Maumee River Yacht Club. She could often be found behind her camera, documenting life’s greatest moments. Above all, she cherished her family—her children, her grandchildren, her brothers and sisters, and her parents—more than anything in the world.

A celebration of Mary’s life will take place at Newcomer Funeral Home, SW Chapel located at 4752 Heatherdowns Blvd, Toledo, Ohio 43614, with visitation on Sunday, April 26th from 3:00 to 8:00 pm. The Funeral Mass will be held on Monday, April 27th at 10:00 am at St. Patrick of Heatherdowns Catholic Church, 4201 Heatherdowns Blvd, Toledo, Ohio 43614. While flowers are welcome, the family kindly requests that those who wish to honor Mary’s memory also consider making a donation to The National MS Society in lieu of, or in addition to, sending flowers.

Mary will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing her.