Carey Lynn Hess-Vitale

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Carey Lynn Hess-Vitale, who left this world on April 25, 2025, after a long and courageous battle with cancer. Carey, born on April 26, 1962, in Erie, was a beloved daughter, sister, mother, grandmother, and friend. She lived her life with a spirit that touched everyone around her and leaves behind a legacy of love, laughter, and cherished memories.

Carey was the daughter of Carolyn and Robert Hess. She is preceded in death by her mother, Carolyn Hess, her sister Kathleen Hartleb, and her brother Edward Hess. She is survived by her father, Robert Hess (and his wife Tracey Hess), her sister Debra Horning (Bob Horning), and her brother Robert Hess (Darlene Hess). She was a proud mother to her three children: Nicole Leone Conway (Mike Conway), Joseph Vitale, Jr., and Stephanie Vitale. She adored her grandchildren, Autilli Bawol, Stella Bawol, Matthew Leone, Roman Vitale, and Catalina Vitale. Additionally, Carey shared her love with many wonderful nieces and nephews, all of whom will carry her memory in their hearts.

Throughout her life, Carey cherished the time spent with her family. She had a special fondness for summer camping trips and treasured the memories made at the family camp in Pleasantville. Carey loved gathering around the family dinner table, sharing stories and laughing. She often reminisced of her mother's cooking and lovingly shared those recipes with her daughter, Nicole. Those simple family traditions were a testament to her nurturing spirit and her dedication to creating lasting memories.

Carey had a zest for life that was infectious to all who knew her. She was a genuinely kind person that had an extraordinary ability to bring a smile to anyone’s face and was always the life of every gathering, lighting up a room with her laughter.

As we remember Carey, we acknowledge the exceptional care she received during her illness. A special thank you goes out to the compassionate support provided by the staff at the Hillman Cancer Center of Erie and the UPMC Hospice Home Health team. Their kindness and dedication to care deeply touched our family and made a significant difference in her journey.

A private celebration of life will be held for Carey's family. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to the UPMC Hospice Home Health team to support the invaluable work they do to support families during the loss of a loved one. Carey Lynn Hess-Vitale may have left this world, but her spirit will forever remain in the hearts of all who had the pleasure of knowing her. Rest in peace, dear Carey; your light will continue to shine in our memories.

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