Mary Joan Kasprzyk Tokarski

Mary Joan Kasprzyk Tokarski, 79, of Jackson, Tennessee, formerly of Hamden, Connecticut passed away on February 20, 2026. She was born in Derby, Connecticut on December 13, 1946 and was the daughter of the late Benjamin and Julia Gluse Kasprzyk.

Mary was a remarkable accordionist, devoted teacher, respected leader, and passionate champion of the arts whose life was defined by music, love, and generosity. A performer of exceptional expression and technical brilliance, she brought the accordion to life with warmth, elegance, and unmistakable joy. Whether on a concert stage or in an intimate gathering, Mary played from the heart, captivating audiences and honoring the instrument she cherished.

As a concert accordionist, Mary’s artistry carried her well beyond her home community. She performed abroad, sharing her musicianship with international audiences and representing the rich tradition of American accordion performance with grace and distinction.

One of the most meaningful chapters of her musical life was performing in the K Trio alongside her siblings, Walter and Julie. Performing together was not only a display of talent, but a celebration of family — siblings united by harmony, discipline, and deep affection.

As a teacher, Mary’s influence was profound and far-reaching. For decades, she mentored students of all ages, blending high expectations with encouragement, humor, and compassion. Her studio was more than a place of instruction — it was a welcoming musical home. Many of her students went on to become accomplished musicians and educators, carrying forward the love and standards she instilled in them.

Beyond her musical accomplishments, Mary found great joy in life’s simple and beautiful moments. She loved cooking and baking for family and friends, filling her home with warmth, laughter, and the comforting aroma of meals made with care. She had a special fondness for strawberries. She also enjoyed playing cribbage and other games with family and friends, where her lively competitive spirit often emerged.

Mary leaves behind a stepson, Chris Collins (Rita) of Bolivar; three beloved grandchildren: Kristy Webb Gentry (Jody) of Middleton, Craig Collins (Candace) of Bolivar, and Kaitlyn King (Chase) of Medon; 5 great-grandchildren she adored: Brooklynn and Hudson Webb, Gage Collins, Madden and Mason King; her brothers Walter Kasprzyk (Karen) of Navarre, FL, Thomas Kasprzyk (Wanda) of Burke Burnett, TX; her brother-in-law Chris Tokarski; and special loved ones Sandra Lester (Kevin), Hunter, Harlie, and Hayleigh Lester, Andrew and Hunter Webb. Mary is also survived by many nieces, nephews, great nieces, and great nephews. Mary is preceded in death by her beloved husband, Frank Tokarski, and beloved sister, Julie Cardona; along with her brother, Michael Fernino.

Mary will be remembered not only for her extraordinary musicianship and leadership, but for her generous spirit, radiant hospitality, playful competitiveness, and boundless love for her family. Her legacy lives on in every melody played by her students, in every organization she strengthened, and in the hearts of her grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and all who were blessed to know her.

A service to celebrate the life of Mary Joan Kasprzyk Tokarski will be held on Monday, March 2, 2026 at 1 p.m. at Aldersgate Methodist Church. The family will receive friends beginning at 11 a.m., two hours prior to the service.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks for donations to be sent to The Mary and Frank Tokarski Musical Arts Fund, a foundation very near and dear to Mary’s heart.

https://www.cfgnh.org/articles/mary-frank-tokarski-musical-arts-fund