Michael W. ‘Mike’ McVay

NEGLEY, Ohio – Michael W. “Mike” McVay, of Negley, formerly of Wellsville, passed away Wednesday afternoon, April 2, 2025, at Mercy Health St. Elizabeth Hospital in Boardman following a brief illness. He was 75 years old.

Born in East Liverpool, April 29, 1949, he was a son of the late Homer H. “Tuffy” and June M. Merchant McVay. A lifetime resident of the area, he was a member of the East Liverpool High School Class of 1968 where he was a member of the football, basketball, track and baseball teams. Mike was a standout athlete on the football field and as a starting quarterback led the team to a 19-2 record and was awarded the Bill Booth Award as a senior. He was a three-year starter for the basketball team and was a key member of the Potter baseball team where he was considered by many to be a major league prospect as a catcher.

He continued his education and athletic career on a football scholarship at West Virginia University playing for the late Coach Bobby Bowden. He furthered his education at the University of Dayton where he earned his Masters of Education. Mike spent his entire working career in public education and was a teacher and coach for over 30 years. He began coaching for Steubenville Big Red High School and was later hired as the head coach at Wellsville High School until his retirement.

Mike enjoyed his retirement years fishing, golfing and boating along with connecting with his lifelong friends. He was always a sports fan and enjoyed following his favorite teams. Most of all, he loved spending time with his wife, Debra R. Cataldo McVay, who he lovingly called “Rose.” The couple married on July 29, 1991. He is also survived by a sister, Carol Hargreaves and her husband, Robert, of Pittsburgh, as well as three nieces, Lisa, Micki, and Jenny.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by a brother, Randy McVay.

Friends may visit Monday at the Dawson Funeral Home where the family will be present from 4 to 8 p.m. Rev. Mark Blakeley will conduct a funeral service Tuesday at 11 a.m. at the funeral home. Burial will be at Columbiana County Memorial Park.

Following the service, friends and family will gather at the Dawson Family Center for fellowship.

View Mike’s memorial webpage and express condolences online at www.dawsonfuneralhome.com.

4/5/25