Mary Elizabeth Isherwood

1947 - 2017

Mary Elizabeth Isherwood obituary, 1947-2017, Oakdale, CT

BORN

1947

DIED

2017

FUNERAL HOME

Montville Funeral Home of Church & Allen

53 Norwich New London Tpke

Uncasville, Connecticut

Mary Isherwood Obituary

Published by Legacy Remembers on May 12, 2017.

Mary Elizabeth Hayden Isherwood Oakdale
(b. 09/15/47 m. 07/17/63 d. 05/11/2017)

This amazing woman was born 15 September 1947 and married the equally amazing David T Isherwood 17 July 1963. Don't trouble yourself with the math, she was 15 and they were married for nearly 54 years! Her life included 3 children, Kevin (married to Sara) living in Seattle, Karin (married to Roxie) living in Wellington, New Zealand and Kristin Dombrowski living in Oakdale, CT. Mary, or Nonee as she was called, was blessed with grandchildren living nearby: Ashley, Nicholas, Madison and baby Geoffrey (d. 1995); and two step-grandchildren living in New Zealand: Felix and Sefton. Mary had 5 older siblings: Elmer (Skip), Robert (Bob) and Michael (Mike) Hayden, Grace Lively and Miki Fielding (d. 2014). Born to Sarah and Elmer Hayden she grew up and went to school in North Hampton, MA, and was married in Edwards Church. David was in the Coast Guard for 27 years, and the family moved from station to station until they settled in Oakdale in 1977. Mary worked at the Coast Guard Academy Exchange for 25 years where she made many special, life-long friends. After retiring, she joined Dr. Richard Benton's office for part-time work and retired (again) when he did. Mary was a straight shooter and claimed a Ph.D. from the School of Hard Knocks; she was a people person who treasured family, friends and cruising, and not necessarily in that order. Mary made friends wherever she went and her Christmas card list was a thing of beauty. In their retirement Mary and David enjoyed cruising the oceans and the friendships they made on the high seas. Mary was an avid reader, in fact, she supplied the Raymond Hill Library with books! She loved hanging out with her grandchildren, passing out sage advice and hosting family dinners. In July 2014 Mary began a heroic battle with lung cancer, metastatic to the brain, which she bravely fought until May 11, 2017. When diagnosed, Mary chose to do as many cruises as she could and declared they prolonged her life. She had a strong belief in God and that guided her throughout her illness. Mary had wonderful care at the Smilow Cancer Hospital care centers in New Haven and in Waterford, and while in the Lawrence + Memorial Hospital, and the family thanks all of the people who cared for Mary. A very special thank you goes to the Oakdale Fire Company and their ambulance. Those who know Mary won't be surprised to know that she had some clear wishes, one of them was that she did not want a viewing or funeral; instead there will be a celebration of her life at the family's convenience. Donations, please, to the Smilow Cancer Hospital 20 York St, New Haven, CT 06510 and or Masonicare Home Health & Hospice 22 Masonic Avenue Wallingford, CT 06492. Please visit www.montvillefuneralhome.com to leave an online tribute or condolence.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Memories and Condolences
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Sponsored by Montville Funeral Home of Church & Allen.

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Not sure what to say?

January 23, 2018

Dennis Tardiff

Dear Dave and Family, I was so saddened to just read of Mary's passing. I know how hard it is to lose a loved one so close to your heart. I have fond memories of Mary at the Academy Exchange and of you Dave. Always remember the good times as they will help brighten your day as time goes on. My sincerest condolences to you and your family.

June 9, 2017

Kristin Dombrowski

Fly High my Angel, my Mom, my best friend. There hasnt been a day I havent shed a tear for you or listened to your voice that was recorded for Ashley. I will make you proud. Mary Jane I love you so.much

June 3, 2017

Roxie Orr

Dearest Dave and all the family,
Sending sympathy for the passing of Mary; for the loss and the huge hole that can only be filled with memories and Mary's legacy.
We also celebrate, as is her wish, her kindness and generosity, her zest for life, and her lovely smile.
With much love always, Roxie, Felix and Sefton

Posted by Roxie Orr

May 25, 2017

Friend

Cheryl Fuller-Egan

Mary was a loyal friend to my Mom, Marge Fuller, and they were great buddies working together at the Coast Guard Academy. Thank you for sharing her with all of us.

May 23, 2017

Donna Yonkoske

Uncle Dave - I was very sadden to hear of my favorite Aunt Mary's passing. She was such a real person and gave it to you straight. I know that the good lord above is wondering what he got himself into with both my Aunt Mary and my mother up there.

To Kristen, Kevin and Karen - I have been in your shoes and know your loss. I hope it helps to understand that she is no longer in pain.

My deepest condolences to you all.

With much love - The Alaska Gang - Donna & Dale Yonkoske and kids

May 23, 2017

Friend

Lucia & Dave Troillet

Dave and family,
It has taken me over a week since I heard of Mary's passing to get my thoughts together. I was so lucky to have met and form a friendship with Mary. I could always count on a good laugh and hug from her. I considered her my birthday sister and was so tickled by the fact she kept the card I gave her for her 60th birthday. She was a rare, unique soul. She will be forever in my heart, and you are in my prayers.
Lucia

"Keep the party going till I join the fun, Mary."

May 23, 2017

Annie Fotiadis

I cherish the ornament of the light house that adorns my Christmas tree every year, Yes, I use the table now instead of the sheet on the floor when I make my Greek cheese pie and I fold every box of butter instead of just throwing it in the trash. (Mary spent 5 hours with me making French toast for The first Oakdale fire company breakfast). These are only a few of the Mary -isms that I share smiling. Eternal are the memories made with my friend.. your smile will always be with me in moments unknown ! Dave ,Kevin ,Karin ,Kristin Ashley , Maddie Nick . I know you carry her heart with you wherever you go

May 22, 2017

Mary and Bob Lavin

So sorry to hear of Mary's passing. The world is a little dimmer now.

May 18, 2017

Dave and family,

Sorry for your loss. Mary was such a sweet person, always with a smile and a hug. Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.

Dave and Sheri McHugh
Norwich, CT

May 18, 2017

Patty Franco

Wow! What a beautiful tribute to Mary. My parents were good friends with Mary and Dave and I have very fond memories of them. I last saw Mary at Mohegan Sun a few years ago. She was screaming my name across the casino. I came to a screeching halt and Mary came running up to see me. I was surprised when she asked if I remembered her. Of course I did! She was always one of my favorite friends of my parents. She always made us laugh and was fun to be around. I was so sorry to hear she was ill, but not surprised she was planning to kick cancer's butt! She fought hard and gave her family and friends more time because of it. I am thankful and honored to have known Mary and value her as one of my favorite people in life. My heart goes out to Dave, Karen, Kristin, Kevin and the rest of her family and friends.

May 18, 2017

I am truly sorry for your loss. I worked with Mary at the Coast Guard Academy Exchange for thirteen years. She made me feel welcome immediately. Mary often spoke about her family whom she cared deeply about. She will always have a place in my heart.

Evelyn Slate
New London

May 17, 2017

Heather Rumm

Kristen and Family~ I am so deeply sorry for your loss. I am so grateful that I had the opportunity to know your mother. She was a very special person and will be missed by many. My thoughts and prayers are with you all. God Bless you. Love, Heather

May 17, 2017

Susan Loiler

To my second family the Isherwoods,
My heart aches for all of you as you lost your wife, mother, and nonee, and I lost my dearest friend. Mary will always be a part of me, and I will cherish all the wonderful memories we made together, especially cruising, hanging out together, and our late night conversations. She so loved her family and friends and always knew how to make them feel special. She knew how to live life, and we should follow her example. What an incredible lady! She will truly be missed! Mary is our guardian angel now watching over her family and loved ones. God bless you Dave and family. Love, Sue

May 17, 2017

Amanda

Mary always had a smile no matter what the circumstance. That smile and kindness she always had will be greatly missed.

May 16, 2017

Ron Bannister

My prayers and condolences to the Isherwood Family. My heart goes out to you David, Kevin, Karin and Krys. Mary is now among the angels and she will be missed, but never forgotten. I'm so very sorry for your loss.

May 16, 2017

Robin Clapp

I grew up knowing my dad's favorite cousin Dave and his wife Mary. And I could immediately understand why they were my dad's favorite; So much fun to be around! Mary had such a welcoming personality you couldn't help but love her. I wish I could make the pain of her loss less for everyone - impossible task. My tears are selfish - I know Mary that you are having a grand time up there as is your way! Love with all my heart - Robin Clapp (Chris, Dan & Trevor)

May 16, 2017

Robert Whitney

Sorry for your loss. Keeping you all in my prayers. David, Kevin, Karin and Krys, you had a truly loving wife and mom. Peace be with you all

Rob, Nick and Maegan Whitney

May 16, 2017

Jana Minar

Dave, my condolences to you and your family. You are in my prayers. Mary was
wonderful lady. she will be missed.
Jana Minar, New London

May 16, 2017

Sherry Mortero

RIP Mary I am going to miss you you were a great friend.

May 16, 2017

John and Sandy Kress

Dear Dave, So sorry to learn of Mary's passing. She fought bravely to the end and we wish her peace. Mary was an excellent worker and a classy lady. She never knew a stranger..they all became her friends. Will keep you and your family in our thoughts and prayers.

May 16, 2017

My condolences go out to the Isherwood family for their loss. Kevin, I wish I could have known your mother. God Bless

w/R, Charlie Colburn, Honolulu, HI

May 16, 2017

Tonya Ratnecht Bogue

RIP Mary❤ I am glad I had the pleasure of meeting you. You touched many lives and will truly be missed. Xoxoxo

May 16, 2017

Keith Nelson

Just wanted to send to the Condolences to the Isherwood family for your Loss.

May 16, 2017

Bill & Judy Dixon

Dave and family, I hope this poem gives you some comfort.

"Do not stand at my grave and weep,
"I am not there, I do not Sleep.
"I am a thousand winds that blow;
"I am the diamond glints on the snow.
"I am the sunlight on ripened grain;
"I am the gentle autumn's rain.
"When you awaken in the morning's hush,
"I am the swift uplifting rush "
"Of quiet birds in circled flight.
"I am the soft star that shined at night.
"Do not stand at my grave and cry.
"I am not there, I did not die."
Author unknown

God Bless You,

Bill and Judy Dixon

May 16, 2017

Alex Chapman

As a member of the Coast Guard family, we are all saddened by Mary's passing. I've been praying prayers of intentions for Dave and Mary. I will continue those prayers.

May 16, 2017

Barbara McCarthy

To all the Isherwood family,
I am saddened to learn of Mary's passing. May God wrap you in his arms and comfort you through this difficult time. Please know I am keeping you in my prayers . May your many memories of happier times bring you peace.

May 16, 2017

Anita Hallbauer

Mary was a wonderful lady. I always enjoyed our chats at the Loiler parties. She will be missed.

May 16, 2017

Joe and Heather Castillo

Kevin, Joe and I send our heartfelt condolences to you and your family. So sorry to hear this news. I had a great conversation with her when I met her at the Currier's retirement dinner. We knew a lot of the same people and I enjoyed talking to her very much. We will be praying for you and your family.

May 16, 2017

Laurie Valliere

I was so saddened to hear of Mary's passing. I know she will be missed by so many her life has touched. My deepest condolences to Dave and the rest of Mary's family and friends.

May 16, 2017

Denyse Espinoza

RIP Mary. You are at peace now. You will be missed. Denyse Espinoza

May 16, 2017

Sonya Gurnee

Our thoughts and prayers are with you and the family we are so sorry for your loss !! I can't express my sympathy my heart aches for all the family and good friends. God bless Sonya ,Steve and family
(Hugs)

May 16, 2017

Steve Ainslie

To the Isherwood Family, my sincere condolences on you loss. You are in our thoughts and prayers.

May 16, 2017

Bea Coleman

Dave: Harry & I send our sympathies on the loss of Mary. She was such a great friend. Loved hearing all about your cruises and family. Please give our love to Kevin, Karen & Krys. And also to your Grandchildren. We shall miss her. I am so glad I got to spend time with her when we went to Middletown. Love to all.

May 16, 2017

Lisa Mileski

I am so sorry for your loss. What an amazing woman she was. She will live on in your hearts forever and will want you to be happy. She is at peace now and has left you with many wonderful memories. My sincere sympathy to all of you.

May 16, 2017

Sunnie Robinson

Dave, Mike & I are thinking of you and send our love & prayers. We hope that recalling the fun times we had over the years will help ease your pain. Mary was certainly one in a million!

May 13, 2017

Family

sylvia shea lapinski

the one person I could talk to about anything.........and even if months went by in between our talks, we picked up right where we left off. Mary was the one who would tell me who was related to who, or in many cases just list the entire family tree of people I asked her about. my whole life I looked up to her and her strength and her honesty......I told her more than once that of all the cousins she was the one most like our grandmother Shea.....and she said the same about me. she always did what had to be done, right to the end. much love to her family; I can only imagine the pain. I will sign the way she thought of me: SylviaJeanScooter.

May 13, 2017

Family

Tim Shea

What can you say about my "crazy" (Her expression) cousin, Mary. We spent a fair bit of time together when we were very young and felt close due to our age. Always a free spirit and outspoken. You knew where Mary stood on things and you also knew what she thought of you at that moment. She was loved and will be missed. Condolences and Love for the family. Tim, Cheryl & Casey Shea

May 12, 2017

Family

Robert Szumowski

I love you Auntie Mare. More than you could possibly ever know. Always there for us. You and Dave. May you and mom be raising hell in heaven.

May 12, 2017

Gary Howe

Dave
Lin and I are sitting in our living room wondering what to say to a dear old friend who has recently lost his solemate. The words do not come easy. Mary faught a tough fight to the end, but she is looking down on us now. The pain and anguish is gone and she is at peace once again. God bless you, Dave, and you wonderful family. My God be with each and everyone of you. RIP Mary Isherwood.
Gary & Lin Howe

May 12, 2017

Mike Grelle

Dave, Rene'e and I were deeply saddened to hear of Mary's passing. You and your family are in our thoughts and prayers. Still pleased that you both spent such well deserved quality time together these past couple of years. Cherish your memories my friend.

May 12, 2017

Charlie Wray

To a Dear friend; Dave, so sorry for your loss.You and the kids have our most sincere condolences.

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