Edward A. Rakocy

Edward A. Rakocy, 85, of Youngstown passed away peacefully on Sunday March 1, 2026, at St. Elizabeth Hospital.

Ed was born on February 18, 1941, in Youngstown, the son of the late Andrew Rakocy and Mary Lucansky Rakocy and was a lifelong area resident.

He graduated from the first class at Cardinal Mooney High School in 1959 and then attended Youngstown University pursuing a degree in education.  He took his first teaching position with Saint Patrick’s school in Leetonia while still a student.  He also worked for the city of Youngstown on school breaks at this time.  He was on the Youngstown University golf team and continued to be an avid golfer throughout his life, belonging to several golf leagues including the Youngstown Sokol League and The Y League. Much time was spent with his brother and many great friends on the golf course and he always enjoyed the 19th hole.

He began working for Youngstown City Schools in 1964 as a teacher at Jefferson Elementary.  He then continued his education at Kent State University, receiving his Masters Degree in 1967.  He began his career as a principal, working at several Youngstown City Schools over the next 30 years, including Harrison, Jefferson, Williamson and finally Cleveland Elementary School.  He was a respected leader and well-liked by his staff, forming lifelong friendships along the way.  Early in his career he also served as an educational consultant for the children’s television program The Electric Company on PBS.  Ed retired in 1995 as a Principal from Youngstown City Schools but eventually returned as a substitute Principal working at several areas: Elementary, Junior and Senior High Schools until officially ending his work with schools and students in 2020 at the age of 79.

Ed married Paula Higgins on August 6, 1966, at Saint Patrick Church in Youngstown, this summer would have been their 60th anniversary.

Ed leaves his wife Paula, his daughter Mary Rakocy-Dietsch (Stephen Eddy) of Columbus and his son Mark Edward Rakocy of Los Angeles CA.

His grandchildren Brieanna (John) Burton-Kimple, Benjamin Burton, Bailey Zoey Burton and Hannah Dietsch, and one great-grandchild Olie. He also leaves his brother Terry (Carol) Rakocy of Columbus along with his nieces Jennifer, Julie, Patty, Kathleen and their families, his brothers-in-law Bob Higgins and Tony Higgins, extended family and friends.  Edward was preceded in death by his beloved daughter Andrea Rakocy Burton who passed away October 27, 2015.

Friends and family may call from 4 to 7 p.m. on Friday March 6, at the Fox Funeral Home.  A mass of Christian burial will be at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday March 7, 2026, at Saint Mary Magdalene Parish, Saint Christine Church 3165 S. Schenley Ave. Youngstown, celebrated by Rev. John Jerek.

Interment will take place at Calvary Cemetery following the mass.

Donations can be made in Ed’s name to Toys for Tots in memory of his work with students.

Arrangements have been entrusted to the Edward J. Fox & Sons Funeral Home, 4700 Market St. Boardman.

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