In Loving Memory of TINA M. CALLARI
With heavy hearts, yet unwavering faith in God’s promise of eternal life, we share that our beloved Tina Callari peacefully went home to be with the Lord on February 26, 2026, surrounded by her dearest friends.
For the past year and a half, Tina faced her battle with cancer with remarkable grace and courage. Even in her most difficult days, she carried her beautiful smile and positive spirit that defined her life.
Tina lived a life centered on faith, family, friends, and fun. She treasured her family and hundreds of friends. Blessed with a wide circle of loyal and loving relationships, Tina had a gift for making people feel seen, welcomed, and valued. Her laughter was contagious, her humor quick and clever, and her presence unforgettable. Above all, Tina lived a life with a pure heart and soul. Her legacy is one of kindness, faith, laughter, and love a testament of a life fully lived.
Tina was a graduate of Holy Name High School Class of 1981. She then pursued her education at Kent State University, where she was one of 10 accepted into their musical theatre program, graduating in 1985 with a degree in Fine Arts. From there, Tina spent many years in New York City and Chicago pursuing her love for theatre as a talented actress and singer. During this time, she met more of her lifelong friends who became family.
Years later, Tina moved back to Ohio to be closer to her parents. This return home also opened the door for her to come back to her other home, Holy Name High School, where she became the Theatre Director, pouring her heart into her students both on and off the stage. Theatre and music were not simply talents; they were expressions of her joyful soul. She inspired creativity, confidence, and community in everyone she taught.
Tina also embraced her entrepreneurial spirit as the proud owner of Chicklet’s Closet on Kelleys Island. Kelleys Island was her peaceful oasis, filled with treasured memories, laughter, lifelong friendships, and a spirit of giving back. She was lovingly known as the “Queen of Kelleys Island.” Tina also cherished her babies (dogs) and was a loyal fan of the Cleveland Browns, Indians, and Cavs.
Service will be held 11 a.m. Friday, March 6, 2026, at Holy Name Auditorium, 6000 Queens Highway, Parma Heights, 44130. Friends will be received in the auditorium 9 a.m. until time of service. Interment Holy Cross Cemetery.
Friends received on THURSDAY, March 5, 2026, at GOLUBSKI FUNERAL HOME, 5986 RIDGE ROAD, PARMA 44129 FROM 4-8 PM.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Holy Name Theatre and The Kelleys Island Tina Callari Memorial. Details on how to donate will be posted separately.
While our hearts grieve, we rejoice knowing Tina is home with the Lord, reunited with her dad, Joe Callari; her mom, JoAnne Callari; and her brother, Jimmy Callari. The Callari family celebrates that their family is back together in Paradise.
Rest in peace, our beautiful and loving, lifelong friend, Tina.
