Mary B. (Tunney) Thompson, age 91, retired elementary school teacher of Gloucester, passed away peacefully at Seacoast Nursing and Rehabilitation Center on February 13, 2019, with family members by her side. She was the loving wife of the late Robert L. Thompson with whom she shared over 41 years of marriage. Mary was born on August 2, 1927 in Worcester, Massachusetts, the only daughter of James and Mary (Breen) Tunney.
She grew up in a three-decker in the Vernon Hill neighborhood, surrounded by a caring Irish-American extended family. She later moved with her family to Arlington, MA, graduating from Arlington High School with the Class of 1944. She then continued her education at Emmanuel College in Boston where she went on to earn a Bachelor of Science degree in Biology in 1948.
After graduating from college, Mary started her career in teaching at the Greenwood Elementary School in Wakefield, MA. She soon realized that teaching was her calling. Mary went on to complete two summers of graduate work in education at the University of Vermont.
Upon meeting and soon marrying Robert in 1952, Mary settled in Gloucester with her husband where they happily began raising their family of five children. The couple purchased a home in the Wheeler’s Point neighborhood, which has remained in the family for over 60 years. Mary and Bob would remark that it was the perfect place to raise a large family, with the river, pond, and brand new Beeman School nearby.
Mary returned to teaching and taught for 26 years in Gloucester, primarily at the Veterans Memorial School. She grew to love the students and families of the Ward II neighborhood. Mary was a dedicated educator who believed that every child could be successful.
After teaching, Mary embraced her retirement. She fulfilled a lifelong dream, embarking on a cross-country bus tour of the United States. She finally had the chance to see and experience the country that she loved.
She continued to join other seniors on shorter excursions, such as Florida and New York City, throughout her retirement years. Mary was a proud member of the YMCA Wet Hens water aerobics group. The women became fast friends, enjoying many outings and excursions together.
Mary also frequented the Rose Baker Senior Center for movies and celebrations. Remaining committed to the education of Gloucester’s school children, Mary volunteered in the computer lab at Beeman School as well as the kindergarten at West Parish. She taught religious education at Sacred Heart Church in Lanesville for many years as well.
Mary enjoyed spending time with her beloved grandchildren, and while in her 70’s, happily agreed to provide daycare in her home for the youngest grandchild, Josie. A widow for 25 years, Mary carried on with strength and courage. She took pride in her home and yard and enjoyed taking care of both.
Mary loved her neighborhood and the people who filled her life. She lived alone at her residence until she was 89 years old. Her last years were spent at Seacoast where she was well liked and made many new friends among residents and staff alike.
She was well known as the official greeter, and would often welcome incoming visitors. Mary will be remembered as a kind and gracious woman who appreciated the simple things in life. She will be sadly missed by all who knew and loved her.
Mary is survived by her five children, daughters Mary Dimock of West Springfield, Kathy DeCoste and husband Larry of Gloucester, Janet Donnelly and husband Robert of Hopedale, Barbara Thompson of Washington, D.C., and son Frederic Thompson and wife Druscilla of Gloucester. She leaves six grandchildren, Matthew DeCoste and wife Michelle of Portsmouth, N.H., Maureen Clark and husband Ian of Easthampton, Stacy Donnelly of Alexandria, VA, Eric DeCoste of Gloucester, Pamela Ventura and husband Mark of Clinton, CT, and Josette Thompson of Gloucester; four great grandchildren, Roslyn Ventura, Theo Ventura, Finn Donnelly, and newborn Maren Clark. She also leaves behind dear friend and in-law Dora M. Greene and close friends Barbara and Steve Miller, Lois Lane, and Priscilla White.
In addition, her brother-in-law, Bill Andrewes, and nieces survive her. Her sister-in-law Phyllis Andrewes predeceased her. Mary was also predeceased by her infant brother Thomas Joseph Tunney and lifelong friend since childhood, Ruth (Ahern) Shannon.
The family would like to thank the staff at Seacoast for their compassionate care and support provided to Mary during the final chapter of her life. Mary’s visiting hour will be held on Wednesday morning, February 20, 2019 from 9-10 a.m. in the Greely Funeral Home, 212 Washington St. Gloucester. Family and friends are cordially invited.
Her mass will follow, being celebrated in Our Lady of Good Voyage Church, Prospect St. Gloucester at 11 a.m. Her burial will be in Calvary Cemetery, Gloucester. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made in her name to: Friends of Seacoast, 292 Washington St. Gloucester, MA, 01930. To plant a tree in memory of Mary Thompson, please visit our Tribute Store.
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