Obituary of Mary Cecelia Perry

Mary Cecelia Perry, 94, passed away peacefully on April 16, 2023 at the Ross Manor in Bangor surrounded by her loving family.  She was born in Bangor, ME on October 10, 1928 to Margaret Mary (Riley) and John Constantine Ryder Sr. 

She was born and raised on Grove Street, as were both of her parents.  She attended St. John’s Grammar School and John Bapst High School.  After graduating she began a long career with the New England Telephone Company.  After retiring, she was a long-time member of the Telephone Pioneers and spent many years volunteering for The Attic thrift store.  In February 1959 she married the love of her life, Byron Joseph “Joe” Perry, and moved to Veazie where they raised their 6 children.  She was predeceased by her husband of 58 years in 2017.  She was able to stay in the family home in Veazie until several weeks before her passing. Her great joy was her family and gatherings at home, especially with the grandkids, great-grandkids, and frequent visits with her sister Elaine and nephews Michael Higgins, Joey Higgins, and Paul Woodcock.  She was known for her quick wit and sense of humor, and above all her kindness and pleasant nature.

She is survived by six children, Patrick and wife MJ of Shelburne, VT, Timothy of Bangor, Susan Burke of Veazie, William and wife Amy of Sugar Land, TX, Joseph and wife Jane of Bangor, and Janice Crump and husband Ken of Bangor; twelve grandchildren; five great-grandchildren; sister Elaine Higgins and sisters-in-law Alice Ellsworth and Beverly Perry, and many nieces and nephews.  She was predeceased by her parents, brothers Franny and Jack, and an infant sister Noreen. 

 A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 11:00 AM, Friday, April 21, 2023, at St. John's Catholic Church, Bangor, with a reception in the church hall following the Mass. Interment will be in Mount Hope Cemetery in Bangor. The family wishes to extend a sincere and heartfelt thanks to Ross Manor, St. Joseph’s Hospice, Amy, and Leasa, Karla, Shauna and Kristine from Silver Lining Home Care for the care and compassion given to Mary.  Also, to the fine EMT folks who have helped over time.  In lieu of flowers a donation may be made in her memory to All Saints Catholic School in Bangor. Arrangements trusted to Kiley & Foley Funeral Service, Bangor and Brewer., Messages and memories may be shared with her family on the tribute wall of kileyandfoley.com.