Mary Drnach

Mary Drnach, 98, Beloved Teacher, Mother, Grandmother, and Great Grandmother

Born July 4th, 1926, Mary Drnach, 98, of Clairton, Pennsylvania, passed away peacefully on January 31st, 2025, leaving behind a legacy of love, learning, and unwavering devotion to family and community.

In addition to her parents, the late Steven and Katherine (Klipa) Spanovich, Mary was preceded in death and the beloved wife of 45 years of Henry William “Hank” Drnach (dod: Nov. 6, 1996) and by her sister, Gloria “Sessie: DeMedio.

She is survived by and the cherished mother of Geri (Dave) Misch, Kathy (Mike) Pietras, and Henry (Pat) Drnach, Jr. She was a devoted grandmother to Julia (Adam Drobotij) Suarez, Juan Suarez, Elisa Suarez, Katie (Bob) Ryan, and Alexis (Cody) Bootes and a proud great-grandmother to Mae, Reagan, and Olivia. Mary is also survived by her sister Harriet “Cosie” Shatrich and brother Nicholas (Joanne) Spanovich and will be remembered by many nieces and nephews. 

Mary dedicated her life to education, inspiring countless young minds as a fourth-grade math teacher in the Clairton School District. Her passion for teaching extended far beyond the classroom, as she instilled a love of learning in all who knew her.

An avid reader and enthusiastic word game player, Mary’s sharp mind and love for language and math never wavered. She found joy in bowling, playing cards, and contributing to her community as an auxiliary member of the American Legion Post 75. She also celebrated her faith and devotion through her Serbian heritage. Her warmth, wit, and kindness left a lasting impression on all who had the pleasure of knowing her.

Family and friends will be received in the Stephen D. Slater Funeral Home, 1701 Route 51, Jefferson Hills, PA 15025, on Tuesday, February 4th, 2025, from 2 pm – 8 pm with a Celebration of her life and funeral service in the funeral home on Wednesday, February 5th, 2025, at 10 am. Father Rajko Kosic will preside over her service. Mary will be buried next to her husband, Hank, in Jefferson Memorial Park Cemetery following the service.

In lieu of flowers, her family requests donations be made in her honor to St. Jude’s Hospital or the charity of your choice.