The week of May 27 was a sad and difficult time for many, as we lost two individuals who were an integral part of the City family and the UA community.

Mary Ann Krauss

Mary Ann Krauss was one of our best known and most beloved community servants who quietly left her mark on many of the programs and amenities we enjoy today. She served on the Upper Arlington School Board from 1982-1990, and on Upper Arlington City Council from 2003-2012, guiding the work of the Schools and the City, and helping to set forth a vision for the community’s continued health and vibrancy. She played pivotal roles in the founding of both the Upper Arlington Education Foundation – which enriches students’ lives within the Upper Arlington Schools – and the Upper Arlington Community Foundation – which enriches the lives of all who live and work here. She was an active member of many local civic groups, served on numerous boards, and lived her faith as a dedicated member of First Community Church.

Mary Ann played an integral role in the Community Foundation’s first legacy project – helping to raise $1 million for the construction of the Amelita Mirolo Barn in Sunny 95 Park. One of her greatest dreams for Upper Arlington – a community center – took more than four decades to realize. Each time this issue was up for consideration, Mary Ann was a lead advocate, and when the time and circumstances were finally ripe for realizing her goal, Mary Ann helped raise more than $8 million in private donations to support the Bob Crane Community Center.

Mary Ann was honored by the Upper Arlington Community Foundation as its “Heart of UA” recipient in 2023. Later this year, she will be celebrated posthumously as the Volunteer Fundraiser of the Year by the Association of Fundraising Professionals.

Whenever she saw a need, Mary Ann did something about it, and Upper Arlington is all the better for her vision, her resolve, and her kindness. Mary Ann’s obituary beautifully captures the life and accomplishments of a unique individual who touched all our lives and who gave so much for the community she loved so dearly: //www.dignitymemorial.com/obituaries/columbus-oh/mary-krauss-11846592

Tom Paisley

Tom Paisley had served as the City’s Code Compliance Officer since 2006. He was more than just a colleague; he was a friend and a mentor to many of us. His commitment to ensuring that Upper Arlington remained a safe and beautiful place to live, and work was unparalleled. Through his diligent enforcement of our codes and regulations, he helped maintain the high standards that our residents and businesses expect and deserve.

He approached each task with a sense of responsibility and integrity, always striving to find solutions that balanced enforcement with compassion. His ability to connect with residents, listen to their concerns, and work collaboratively to resolve issues made a significant difference in our community.

Our thoughts and prayers are with Tom’s wife, children, and family during this difficult time. Tom’s obituary can be found here: //newcomercolumbus.com/Obituary/278373/Thomas-Paisley/Columbus-OH