Born in New Bedford, a daughter of the late Alfred and Mary (Lister) King she was a lifelong area resident.
She leaves behind her twin brother, David and her sister Ann; six children; six stepchildren; 25 grandchildren; 22 great grandchildren; one great great grandchild; and her puppies Joey and Carlos. She was the sister of the late Edward King.
She worked as a business agent at ILGWU/ILGFCU, as a seamstress, and later cleaning houses. She was a member of the Elks Club and involved in the Redman Club, where she made great friends and memories in the community.
After retiring, she was an active volunteer. She was a foster grandparent at the Schwartz Center, worked at Southcoast St. Luke’s Hospital Gift Shop and voting polls. Mary was recognized in 2019 for her service by the Town of Dartmouth, Yesterday’s Children: Wisdom of the Elders.
She lived a life of service above self whether raising her children, grandchildren, or others in the community. She was happiest when with her family, listening to jazz, painting, and giving back to the various roles she played in the community. If she wasn’t cooking a meal, she was altering your clothes, watching your children, or cleaning – all with a smile.
Her services are private and under the direction of Waring-Sullivan Home at Dartmouth, 230 Russells Mills Rd., Dartmouth, MA 02748. In lieu of flowers, donations in her honor may be made to The Schwartz School, Meeting Street, One Posa Place, Dartmouth, MA 02747 or www.meetingstreet.com. For online tribute: www.waring-sullivan.com.
