Youngstown Community Remembers Clarissa ‘Corkey’ Elias

Family and friends come together to celebrate the life of Clarissa Corkey Elias.

News Summary

The Youngstown community mourns the loss of Clarissa ‘Corkey’ Elias, a beloved local figure who passed away peacefully surrounded by family. Born on January 19, 1941, Corkey dedicated her life to her community and family, leaving behind a rich legacy of love and hospitality. Known for her culinary arts and strong community ties, Corkey touched the lives of many, and her memory will live on through those who knew and loved her.

Youngstown Mourns the Loss of Clarissa “Corkey” Elias

It is with heavy hearts that the community of Youngstown, Ohio, remembers a cherished local figure, Clarissa “Corkey” Elias, who peacefully passed away on December 28, 2024, surrounded by her beloved family. Corkey, who brought joy and warmth to the lives of many, leaves behind a rich legacy of love and community spirit.

A Life Well Lived

Corkey was born on January 19, 1941, to John and Helen Price Horney. A proud product of Youngstown, she graduated from Wilson High School in 1958, where she also took the baton as a proud majorette in the school’s marching band. Her infectious spirit and energetic performances on the field were a highlight of high school life for many.

Following her graduation, Corkey ventured out of state to Maryland, where she pursued her passion for organization and management, majoring in secretarial studies. She would go on to work for Travelers Insurance and later serve as the head secretary in the department of anesthesiology at St. Elizabeth Medical Center for an impressive 25 years. Corkey dedicated her career to helping others and made a significant impact before retiring in 2010.

A Love Story for the Ages

Corkey’s life took a beautiful turn when she met her future husband, Bob Elias, in 1977. The couple shared a loving marriage for 44 wonderful years, filled with joys, laughter, and unforgettable moments. They became devoted fans of football, especially the Pittsburgh Steelers and Notre Dame. Corkey was particularly proud of her connection to Notre Dame; her brother, John, was part of the iconic 1966 National Football Championship team. The duo was dedicated enough to attend every Notre Dame game for 35 consecutive years!

Beyond the Fields

But Corkey was more than just a football fan! She enjoyed watching golf and tennis, especially during family gatherings. Her favorite getaway was the beautiful Outer Banks in North Carolina, where she delighted in the ocean’s waves and indulged in delicious seafood. She also treasured trips to Atlanta, Georgia, to visit family; these voyages were filled with cherished memories and laughter.

A Culinary Queen

Corkey was not just a sports enthusiast; she was a culinary artist in her kitchen! Known for her amazing cooking skills, she often welcomed friends and priests into her home for delightful meals that showcased her love for food and hospitality. Her home was always alive with the smells of her latest culinary creations, making it a favorite place for anyone lucky enough to be invited.

A Lifelong Commitment to Community

A true pillar of the community, Corkey was a lifelong member of St. Dominic Parish, where she actively participated in various parish projects. She held dear the friendships she made through a close-knit group of her 1958 high school classmates, meeting monthly over dinner to reminisce and celebrate their enduring bonds.

Remembering Corkey

Sadly, Corkey was preceded in death by her parents, her brother Dr. John Horney, and her sister Sandra Laverie, among others. She is survived by her loving husband Bob, her sister-in-law Alice Horney Simpson, and a caring family that includes numerous nieces, great-nieces, and great-nephews.

Farewell Gatherings

Friends and family are invited to pay their respects during the calling hours that will take place from 4 to 7 p.m. on Sunday, January 5, 2024, at the Fox Funeral Home in Boardman. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at St. Dominic Parish at 10 a.m. on Monday, January 6, 2024, followed by her final resting place at Calvary Cemetery in Youngstown.

The family expresses their heartfelt thanks to the doctors and staff at the Hope Center and SouthWoods Hospital for their care during Corkey’s later years. In lieu of flowers, they kindly ask that donations be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, the Rescue Mission of Mahoning Valley, and Animal Charity.

For those wishing to remember Corkey and share their condolences, additional details can be found at www.foxfuneralhome.org.