Mary A Burgess

Mary Ann Burgess (1935-2026)

Mary Ann Burgess, a devoted mother, loyal friend, and active member of her community, passed away at the age of 90. Born in Chicago in 1935, she was one of five children of Dr. Jerry J. Kearns and Josephine (née Thon) Kearns. She was predeceased by her siblings Joan, Tom, Michael, and Ann.

Mary attended the Francis W. Parker School in Chicago before continuing her education at Smith College in Massachusetts, where she earned a degree in English and Botany. Following her graduation, she embarked on an adventurous chapter of her life, joining a group of friends to chart a river in Canada - an experience that reflected her curiosity, determination, and love of the natural world.

She later moved to Worcester, Massachusetts, where she met her husband, John A. Burgess, while both were working at Clark University. They married in 1961 and shared their life until John's passing in 1994. Together, they lived in Worcester and New York City before settling in Mt. Lebanon, Pennsylvania, in 1965, where they built a lasting home and community.

In the 1970s, Mary co-owned a popular local plant shop, Unicorn in the Garden, in Mt. Lebanon, with her dear friend Linda Turk. During that same decade, she was also active in the League of Women Voters, reflecting her commitment to civic engagement and informed public participation. She remained civically engaged throughout her life as an active member of the Democratic Party. An avid gardener, she found great joy in cultivating plants and sharing that passion with others. In later years, she supported friends by providing bookkeeping services for their small businesses. Her commitment to her community was evident through her many volunteer roles. She gave her time generously to the Mt. Lebanon Public Library, served as a Girl Scout leader for many years, and volunteered with student support services and the library at Mt. Lebanon High School, as well as Phipps Conservatory.

Mary will be remembered for her warmth, generosity, infectious laugh and steadfast willingness to help others. She formed deep and lasting friendships and touched the lives of many with her kindness.

She is survived by her daughters, Kimberly Barata and Elizabeth Burgess, and by her cherished grandchildren: Isabel and Nathan Barata and Max and Jay Burgess Peters, as well as her son and daughter-in-law, Vitor Barata and Tanya Peters.

Her life was one of service, compassion, and enduring love for family and community. She will be deeply missed and fondly remembered by all who knew her.

Arrangements are entrusted to WILLIAM SLATER II FUNERAL SERVICE. 1650 Greentree Rd., Scott Twp., 15220 412-563-2800.
www.slaterfuneral.com