Mary Ann Wilkinson

The youngest of five, she was a hard-working woman deeply dedicated to her many brothers and sisters—and most of all to her mother, Helen. As a little girl, she loved to sing—and legend has it she wowed crowds and won over the nuns during her childhood school years at St. Francis School.

She was petite, bright, and hoped to be a journalist. Due to many unexpected twists and turns and having to traverse what was a challenging life amidst most of her days, she gave birth to a journalist instead. Her only child, Eric Bliss Wilkinson, was her greatest gift. There was never a more loyal duo.

In her final years, while battling dementia, Mary Ann resided in Washington state near her son and his wife, Kathryn (Katie) Brown Wilkinson, and two granddaughters, Olivia Bliss and Audrey Elizabeth. Her grandchildren were the brightest stars in her orbit. She'd sing for them, and they'd promise to choose significant others wisely and to pursue notable careers for her ("Teacher?", "Doctor?"—she'd inquire each time she visited.) Her most recent outings with Eric were spent enjoying drives along the waterfront and to visit Olivia at the bakeshop where she worked. A warm cocoa, a hot fudge sundae, and Sugar, her beloved dog, were always along for the ride.

Mary Ann's mantra over the past several years was, "Thank you, honey." Whether it was in response to having a cozy blanket draped over her, scooting an ottoman under her feet, or helping her with her seatbelt, she always expressed her sincere gratitude.

In addition to her son and his family, three stepchildren, and several dear nieces and nephews and their families, Mary Ann leaves behind her only surviving sibling and the eldest of the children, Thomas Hall of Syracuse, NY. There was no better friend and protector of Mary Ann than her brother, Tom. He remained a strong, supportive, and loving presence in her life each day of her 87 years. Mary Ann was preceded in death by her mother, her husband, Bliss Davis Wilkinson, brother Jack Hall, sisters Betty Cross and Earldean Vulcano. Eric and Katie would especially like to thank Mary Ann's caretakers at Genesis Family Home. They are angels among us.

We imagine Mary Ann now singing "Harrigan" to the nuns once again, but this time, in the great beyond with the spirit of that once carefree little girl that she was.

Our final wish for her comes from what she would tell her granddaughters each time she kissed them goodnight, "May the angels guard your sleep."

Donations may be made in Mary Ann Wilkinson's name to The Noah Center, where Sugar was adopted, or to the Alzheimer's Association.

An Irish wake will be held in the coming days.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.Evergreen-Washelli.com for the Wilkinson family.