Mary had been a high school art teacher. She came to Australia in 1961 with her husband, Eric, and two children, Patricia and Andrew. Another daughter, Meryl, was born soon after in Wollongong.

Mary's 25-year career was mainly spent at Oak Flats High School and the family lived at Albion Park Rail.

Her husband died in 1975. She moved to Kiama in 1980 and retired from teaching in 1986 whereupon she took up volunteering with gusto.

There are almost too many things to list but some of the most memorable, where she developed lifelong friendships, include being a member of the Kiama Jazz Club who, under the then leadership of Denis Koks, gave Kiama many years of wonderful concerts. It was hard and demanding work, transforming the old pavilion to a venue worthy of showcasing great talent, but she loved it.

Music, singing, dancing, acting and performing were in her blood and she never missed an opportunity nor was ever shy.

This led her to the Roo Theatre, of which she was a founding member, with Gordon Streek at the helm of some amazing shows including Quarry. Over the years Mary performed weekly at Blue Haven retirement village entertaining the elderly and at Kiama Carols by Candlelight with the Kiama Chorale.

Mary had a big heart for people in need and made it her mission to take out those less mobile than her for excursions.

For many years she served Meals on Wheels to the housebound.

Mary joined Amnesty International when she first moved to Kiama and loved working with other thoughtful, intelligent people whom she admired, such as Laurie Balding.

Mary was also active politically and felt strongly Australia should become a republic.

She thrived assisting with campaigns as well as being a member of the Labor party.

She needed to keep her mind active and loved the company of others so U3A (University of the 3rd Age) was a great event to enjoy each week.

Her many good friends, especially those she joined each Saturday for coffee outings would agree that if you engaged Mary in conversation she would most probably have a strong opinion to share.

She loved her family and had an intense desire to get them all together at every opportunity.

Mary had left a large, close family of relatives back in Lancashire, England, and this need to mesh and grow her family was strong in her.

All will miss Mary and her "get things done" approach to life.

She never complained or had a bad word to say about anybody. Those she admired and spoke of frequently could fill this page.

Above all, Mary's legacy is a treasure trove of memories.