YOUNGSTOWN, Ohio - A fixture of the Youngstown community has passed away.

Claire Maluso, 92, died Sunday following a short illness.

Maluso was born in 1929 to John and Florence Saunders, one of the founding families of St. Brendan's Church.

She was a Chaney High School graduate and later graduated from Youngstown College.

Maluso spent several years teaching in the area and became involved in a number of local civic groups.

She was involved with NCCJW (National Council of Christian and Jewish Women), Chi Epsilon, Quota International, the Youngstown Playhouse, the Kenley Players, and more.

Claire Maluso was later recruited by the City of Youngstown to become the Federal Plaza Director. She held that title between 1988 and 1998 before becoming 17th District Congressional Development Director from 1998 through 2003.

During her time with the 17th District, she brought $2.3 million dollars to The Youngstown Playhouse, bringing the Covelli Center to Youngstown and the Mahoning Valley Scrappers to the area.

She was also on the Board of Directors of Youngstown Cityscape and was given the title of "The Lady of Lights" because of her city lighting campaign that installed twinkle lights at no cost to Youngstown City or its residents.

Calling hours will be held Sunday, June 13 from 4 to 7 p.m. at Rossi & Santucci Funeral Home in Boardman. Those attending are asked to wear a mask.