Dr. Olga Filomena Lombardi

Dr. Olga Filomena Lombardi, a loving and beautiful human being, passed away at the age of 74 on Saturday, November 12, 2022.  She is survived by her devoted husband of 45 years, Giuliano Lombardi.

Olga was born and grew up near Forlì del Sannio, Italy.  After immigrating to the United States at the age of 13, she pursued a higher education in the humanities.  She earned her undergraduate degree from Ursuline College, a Masters in Romance Languages from Case Western Reserve University, and a Ph.D. in Italian Literature.

As a beloved teacher at Villa Angela and assistant professor at Ursuline College, Olga touched the lives of over 30,000 students during the course of her career.  She was an accomplished scholar–fluent in Italian, English, Spanish, French, and various dialects.  She was also a social advocate and educational innovator guiding her students on their academic journey and, more often than not, in life as well.  Olga was a bright spot on campus, and her warmth and compassion drew in everyone.

As a devoted mother, she nurtured her children Giuseppina (Jason) Fuller and Elizabeth (Marvin) Goetz, who strive daily to emulate her kindness and integrity.  Olga’s greatest joy in life was her grandchildren, Massimo Fuller and Giuliana Goetz, whom she cherished above all else.  Anyone visiting her home will find a loving space overflowing with photos and mementoes of her grandchildren, family, and friends.  She often said, “The greatest harvest of one’s life is one’s family.”

Olga was a loving sister of the late Antonio (Phyllis) Melaragno and a loving aunt to Antonio B. Melaragno and family, Maria Putney and family, and Tina Gallagher and family.  She was the loving daughter of the late Benigno and Rosmilde Melaragno, whom she cared for deeply, and a dearest friend of the Valletta family.

Shining through her smile and sincere embrace was a contagious joy and love for anyone fortunate enough to have met her.  For those closer, Olga’s kindness and exuberant generosity of spirit will be remembered forever.  As a true earthly embodiment of Christ’s unconditional love, her impact on this world will endure through all those who were blessed enough to have known her and as they, in turn, sow the seeds of that love in their own lives.  Remember her for the beautiful way she lived her life, as a friend to all, devoted to helping others.

Mass of Christian Burial will be held at St. Anselm Catholic Church at12969 Chillicothe Rd, Chesterland, OH on Friday, November 18th at 10:30am.  Arrangements handled by THE DeJOHN FUNERAL HOME & CELEBRATIONS CENTER OF CHESTERLAND 12811 CHILLICOTHE ROAD. Online obituary, guestbook, & order flowers at www.DeJohnCares.com.