A Beautiful Person
Mary Ann Kenney Ciano was a co-founder and benefactor of the Renewable Community Initiative. She left us on February 6, 2021, nearly seventy-four years young. Throughout her life, she embodied the finest qualities of what humanity can and should be.
Because of Mary Ann’s lifetime of helping others—both people and animals—their burdens were lightened. Her quiet, humble, and selfless generosity revealed a soul and spirit that were kind, compassionate, and loving, yet resolute and strong when needed. Mary Ann triumphed over the deep adversity she endured as an infant and child, transforming her pain into purpose and making life better for all whom she touched.
A highly respected nursing supervisor for more than twenty-five years, she managed four operating rooms simultaneously—no small feat for such a tiny lady who achieved remarkable success in the medical field.
Mary Ann was the devoted wife of Richard Ciano for twenty-seven years until his passing in 1996. She is survived by Paul Welch, who cherished, admired, respected, and cared for her as her best friend and partner during the final years of her life. Mary Ann also leaves behind her beloved fur daughter, Pixie Dust, along with eight godchildren, two brothers-in-law, Paul’s two sons, and his four grandchildren.
The loss of Mary Ann’s presence is profound for those of us blessed to have known her best.
Mary Ann would not want anyone to mourn her passing or feel pain because of it. She was always about helping others reach better places.
The Renewable Community Initiative is what it is today because of her vision, her generosity, and her unwavering support.