Carolyn Ann Devinney's Obituary
Carolyn Ann (nee Lonsway) Devinney, 85, passed away peacefully May 6, 2026. She was born February 22, 1941 in Tiffin, Ohio and was the daughter of Una and Charles Lonsway. She graduated from Columbian High School in Tiffin with the Class of 1958.
Carolyn was previously married to Daniel McGowan for 30 years, and together they had three adoring children; Daniel “Scott” (Rose) McGowan of Austin, Texas, Tracey (Bob) Muniak of Port Clinton, Ohio and Bryan (Randa) McGowan of Punxsutawney, Pennsylvania. She later married Jack Devinney, who preceded her in death. She was also the longtime companion and partner of George “Tony” Briihl, who also preceded her in death. Carolyn was blessed to have three great loves during her life. She was truly “Lucky in Love.”
She was a devoted mother whose greatest joy came from caring for and spending time with her family. She loved making things beautiful, whether through her yard work or home painting projects.
She is lovingly remembered by her devoted brother, Mark (Kim) Lonsway, as well as her late brother Bill’s children, Bradley (Teresa) Lonsway and Jennifer Wilson, who held a very special place in her heart. Carolyn was the proud Nana of Rachael (Damien) Moreno, Danny and Drew McGowan, Rob (Abby), Ryan (Alfa), and Emma Muniak and Sam, Lucy, and John McGowan. She was also the cherished great-grandmother of Leo, Lorraine, Layne, (Nana’s birthday twin) and Lucille Moreno.
She was preceded in death by parents, Una and Charles Lonsway; brother, William “Bill” Lonsway; husband, Jack Devinney; and longtime companion, George “Tony” Briihl.
Carolyn had the sweetest, most caring way about her that made others feel deeply loved. Anyone who knew her was touched by her kindness and warmth.
Her family would like to thank the staff at Life Care Center of Elyria for the wonderful care they provided in her later years, as well as Crossroads Hospice for the compassion and support shown to both Carolyn and her family during the final weeks of her life.
A celebration of Carolyn’s life will be held in July.
Memorial donations in Carolyn’s name may be made to Crossroads Hospice and Palliative Care, 9775 Rockside Rd., Suite 270, Valley View, OH 44125, or Ottawa National Wildlife Refuge, 14000 State Route 2, Oak Harbor, OH 43449.
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