Mary Blakely Papa

Mary was born on March 18, 1939, in New Rochelle, Westchester County, New York, as the only child of Lawrence Gaffney and Agnes Gaffney. Mary cherished the close relationships she developed throughout her life with her extended family and dear friends. Though an only child, she created a large and loving family through the many lives she touched.

Mary pursued a lifelong commitment to education and service. She earned a Bachelor of Science degree from the College of Mount Saint Vincent and later received a Master's Degree in Education from Fordham University. From 1957 to 1960, she entered religious life with the Sisters of Charity at the College of Mount Saint Vincent on the Hudson. Although she ultimately left religious life in 1971, the values of faith, service, compassion, and devotion to others remained at the center of her life.

On November 23, 1973, Mary married Richard F. Blakely. Their marriage was blessed with years of companionship until Richard's death on December 31, 1980. Later, Mary found love again in Florida and married Frank A. Papa on September 8, 2003. They shared a devoted marriage until Frank's death on July 7, 2010.

Although Mary did not have children of her own, she was blessed with a special bond with her niece, Ann-Margaret Alexander, whom she regarded as a daughter. She likewise treasured Emma Alexander, whom she lovingly thought of as her granddaughter. Family was one of life's greatest blessings to Mary, and she invested deeply in nurturing those relationships. Her guidance, encouragement, wisdom, and unconditional love created family ties that extended well beyond blood and were treasured by all who knew her.

Mary devoted her professional life to education, teaching for 39 years beginning in 1960. She spent the majority of her career teaching in New York, where she touched the lives of countless students and families. Following the death of her first husband, she relocated to South Carolina, where she continued her teaching career in Holly Hill and Summerville. Her dedication to her students never wavered, and she remained a beloved educator until her retirement in 1999. For Mary, teaching was never simply a profession. It was a calling and an opportunity to encourage young people to believe in themselves and pursue their dreams.

Mary had a keen appreciation for beauty, elegance, and the importance of presenting oneself with dignity. She faithfully visited the beauty salon each week to have her hair coiffed, never left the house without lipstick, and was always impeccably dressed.

Whether attending Mass, meeting friends, or simply running errands, Mary believed in looking her best.

Her naturally beautiful silver-gray hair became one of her trademarks. While living at Waltonwood before moving to The Retreat in Cary, she became known affectionately by residents and staff as "the lady with the beautiful hair." The compliment reflected not only her striking appearance but also the grace and confidence with which she carried herself. She formed many cherished friendships during her years at Waltonwood and later at The Retreat. Although she was not particularly athletic herself, she rarely missed an opportunity to watch hockey, tennis, golf, or college football. Whether cheering on her favorite teams from her living room or discussing the latest game with friends, sports brought her enjoyment and connection with others.

Mary especially loved her beloved poodles, Georgie, Cleo, Cory, and Sophie, who brought her years of companionship, laughter, and unconditional love. Her dogs occupied a special place in her heart and were a constant source of comfort and joy throughout her life.

Mary's faith remained a guiding force throughout her life. Whether as a member of the Catholic Church, a former Sister of Charity, a teacher, wife, aunt, mentor, or friend, she was known for her intelligence, generosity, wit, and unwavering concern for others. She possessed a remarkable ability to make people feel welcome, remembered birthdays and special occasions, and maintained friendships that lasted decades. Those fortunate enough to know Mary will remember her elegant style, beautiful smile, steadfast faith, and genuine interest in the lives of others. She leaves behind a legacy of kindness, service, and love that will continue to inspire all who knew her.

Remaining to cherish Mary's memory are her devoted niece, Ann-Margaret Alexander (Keith), and Emma Alexander; Margaret McConnell, Graham McConnell (Lisa), Ann McConnell (Cameron), Thomas McConnell (Leslie), Kirstine Niswonger (Steve), and Ian Simpson (Wendy), along with many other relatives, dear friends, former students, and colleagues whose lives were enriched by her love and friendship.

Preceding Mary in death were her husbands, Richard F. Blakely and Frank A. Papa; her parents, Lawrence and Agnes Gaffney; Thomas McConnell, Margaret Crosbie, and Cathy and John Simpson, together with numerous cherished friends and loved ones who welcomed her into eternal life.

A Funeral Mass will be held at St. Michael the Archangel Roman Catholic Church (804 High House Rd, Cary, NC 27513) on September 22, 2026 at 11:00 am.

A Reception will follow the service.

Clergy : Father Thomas S. "Tom" Tully

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Sisters of Charity, Covenant House, or the Alzheimer's Association, organizations whose missions reflected Mary's lifelong commitment to faith, compassion, education, and service to others.