Mary Elizabeth Mabie

Mary Elizabeth Mabie was the sweetest soul. And if you knew her, you also knew she was spunky, fun loving, gorgeous and whole lot of fun. Born on Christmas Day in 1955 to Margaret and Claude foster, Mary was the youngest of five children, with four older brothers: Robert, Denny, Harold, and Freddy, all of whom preceded her in death.

Mary found her soulmate in Jon Briggs, who survives her, and together they built a beautiful life filled with love, laughter, and more adventures than most people could fit into several lifetimes. Their trips to Texas were an annual tradition. There is the farm, the cabin near Torch Lake, the sailboat, hunting, fishing, traveling in their fifth wheel exploring the outdoors, cars, and of course, their beloved golden retrievers and several cats. And, apparently because cats, dogs, a farm, a cabin, and a sailboat weren't quite enough, Mary and Jon also raised a few racoons. The farm provided a bounty of fresh fruits and veggies that Mary canned year after year. Her jams were exceptional. Because that was Mary.

She was always ready for an adventure and always wanted to be the first to tell you that whatever life had thrown at you, you were going to get through it. When you thought you had lost the fight, Mary was the person who'd remind you that you hadn't.

Mary was recognized as an outstanding nurse during her career at Chelsea Hospital.

She had a heart that naturally cared for others, and caring for people wasn't simply her profession - it was who she was. She showed up. She listened. She helped. And somehow managed to make people feel that things were going to be okay, even when they didn't feel okay.

Mary will be deeply missed by Jon, Dan (Amy), grandchildren Jack and Rachel (Landon) and her many nieces and nephews, and great nieces and great nephews, along with countless friends and loved ones that she touched.

She was the person who was always there for everyone. And now while we wish we could have just a little more time with her, we can be grateful for every laugh, every adventure, every story, and every moment she gave us.

Rest in Peace Sweet Mary. We love you and we will carry you with us always.

And knowing Mary, in heaven she's probably already found a beautiful view, a good adventure, a few animals to spoil and someone who needs looking after.