Mrs Mary Katherine Canonico

Born in Aliquippa, PA 

Mary Katherine Canonico “Dolly”, 92, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, August 26, 2026, at the Hospice House in West End.

Daughter of the late George and Matilda May Bark Tovey.

Predeceased by her 3 brothers, George, Jack, and Lou Tovey, and her sister Jane Gdula.

Dolly attended school at St. Veronica in Ambridge, PA, and attended many dances and social activities where she eventually met her husband, Leroy (Lee) Canonico.

Dolly and Lee were married July 6, 1957.  Together, they raised 4 children: Ron Canonico, David (Mary) Canonico, Kathy Miles, and Scott (Nanette) Canonico.

Dolly enjoyed her time in various careers, especially volunteering, and spent time working at the Monterey Bay Aquarium in California. She also enjoyed the time she spent, and the love she shared, with numerous dogs and grand puppies over the years.

Dolly’s passion and love for her family and friends was her pride and joy. She created a beautiful and loving home that kept the family thriving with her faith and many consistent details attributed to her love. 

Dolly enjoyed many years of dancing, golfing, bowling, gardening, puzzles, bird watching, baking, and especially Mahjong, which she vigorously played with the many friends she made through the years.

Dolly and Lee were blessed and fortunate to have lived in many wonderful places throughout their years together. They moved from Coraopolis, PA to Centerport, NY in 1968 before moving to Minnetonka, MN in 1981. Lee’s work then took them to Monterey, CA in 1987, where they lived for 18 years before arriving in Pinehurst in 2005.

Dolly made many friends with her infectious smiles and the joy she spread, especially with her friends who are family in Pinehurst, NC.

She was a member of the Sacred Heart Catholic Church, Pinehurst, NC, and enjoyed her involvement with the Women of Sacred Heart and the many events she participated in.

She is survived by her loving husband Leroy (Lee) Canonico of 69 years, three sons and a daughter – Ron Canonico, David (Mary) Canonico, Kathy Miles and Scott (Nanette) Canonico, and 8 grandchildren Ashley, Cristin, Leah, Katie, Brandon, Shawn, Eva Mae and Luca, along with 4 great-grandchildren Summer, Gavin, Sadie and Kara Beth.  She also had many treasured nieces and nephews that were a significant part of her life.  They shared many loving moments together.

Mass Services will be September 24th at 11:00 AM at the Sacred Heart Catholic Church, with a Celebration of Her Life following the service at Longleaf Golf and Family Club.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the Hospice House through the Foundation of First Health.

Online condolences can be made at PinesFunerals.com.

Powell Funeral Home is serving the Canonico family.