Mary was born in Hornell, New York on May 27, 1916. Her parents were Ray and Lena M. (Brush) Bardeen. Mary lived with her parents and four siblings on the family farm which was located on the Big Creek Road. She had many happy memories of growing up with her family on that farm. Early in her life she developed a sincere respect for education. She began her educational experience in a one room school house on Big Creek Road and later graduated from Hornell High School, Class of 1932. In the fall of 1932 she enrolled at Alfred University as a math major. While at Alfred she worked in the library to help pay for the cost of her education. Mary graduated with her degree in math education from AU in 1936 and became employed as a high school math teacher at Arkport Central School. Soon after she arrived at Arkport, the need arose for a part time librarian. Mary accepted the position in addition to her math responsibilities and spent several summers at Geneseo State College earning her permanent certification as a School Librarian. After raising her family she returned to her work in education by serving as the School Librarian at Canaseraga Central School until her retirement in the early 1980’s.
On October 28, 1944, Mary married Gordon P. Wilson, the love of her life. Their marriage brought her to Canaseraga and life on the family farm that they owned until Gordon’s death in June of 1992. Together they raised 3 children and enjoyed their 8 grandchildren. At the time of her death Mary had 23 great-grandchildren and a 24th on the way. They all loved her very much.
All of Mary’s family and friends experienced her genuine kindness and inner strength. She always demonstrated a servant’s heart whether it was helping a family member or welcoming a friend that she hadn’t seen in a long time. Mary loved to read, listen to music, tend to her garden and flowers and play euchre. She treasured the frequent visits and telephone calls she received from her grandchildren and great-grandchildren, and never missed sending them a card on their birthday with a little something special inside. By watching her enjoy a bird’s song or appreciate a beautiful sunset, or read a good book, Mary definitely set a great example of how to live a life full of purpose and contentment.
Mary was predeceased by her parents, her sister Virginia Bardeen Bartlett, her husband Gordon, brothers Raymond, Robert, and Charles along with son-in-law Sam Ludden.
Mary is survived by her three children; Don (Janeen) Wilson of Canaseraga, Linda Ludden of Washingtonville, NY and Robert (Donna) Wilson of Canaseraga. Her 8 grandchildren: Rob (Kim) Wilson, Jeff (Holly) Wilson, Bryan (Megan) Wilson, Dan (Stephanie) Wilson, Elizabeth (John) Alexander, Jeanne (John) Sitarski, Kelly (Eugene) Liauw and Paul (Judy) Ludden. 23 great-grandchildren; Angel, Carlie, Kimberly, Whitney, Nolan, Sara, Jeffrey, Collin, Brandon, Faith, Luke, Drew, Leah, Anna, Kate, Veronica, Vivian, Samuel, Nathaniel, Kathleen, Abby, Emmy and Maddie. Mary is also survived by numerous nieces and nephews.
To send a remembrance to the family, please visit www.brownandpowersfuneralhomes.com. The family is being assisted by David W. Ames, Director.
The family will be present on Friday (Dec. 22, 2017) from 10 a.m.-12 p.m. at the Bender-Brown & Powers Funeral Home, 354 Canisteo St. Hornell, NY where funeral services will be held at 12 p.m., Rev. Jesse Flint officiating. Burial will be in the Canaseraga cemetery.
In lieu of flowers memorial donations can be made to: the St. Jude’s Children Hospital, 262 Danny Thomas Place, Memphis TN, 38105.
