Mary Stackpole

Mary P. Stackpole, a devoted mother, cherished sister, beloved teacher, and dear friend, passed away on March 16th. She leaves behind a legacy of kindness, resilience, and love that touched the lives of all who knew her.

Mary is survived by her children, Eugene Stackpole of Sarasota, FL, and Christine Joachim and her husband Tim of Herndon, VA. She was predeceased by her beloved children, John, Mary, and Andrew. She will be deeply missed by her siblings, Eileen Nash and James Snee of Monroe, NY, Kathleen Roman of Rhinebeck, NY, and Rosaleen Cardillo and her husband Marc of Poughkeepsie, NY. She was predeceased by her parents John and Mary Snee and siblings John Snee and Thomas Snee. She is also survived by her cousin Catherine Franko of Massapequa, as well as her many loving nieces and nephews.

Mary dedicated her career to shaping young minds as a public school teacher in the Sachem Central School District, spending most of her tenure teaching third grade at Waverly Avenue School. It was not uncommon for former students to fondly recall her as one of the best teachers they ever had. Beyond her professional life, Mary had many passions. Yoga was a central part of her life for many years; she was not only a strong and flexible yogi but also formed lasting friendships within her yoga community, including Patricia D’Angelo and Janet Hartling. She was an avid reader, especially of murder mysteries, and always stayed informed on current events through newspapers and television news. She loved walking through her Port Jefferson community, often accompanied by one of her beloved dogs—most recently, Oliver, her small but spirited dachshund. She also enjoyed crossword puzzles, which she often completed as a team effort with her family.

Mary's Catholic faith was a source of great strength to her. Before moving to Virginia in 2020, she was a devoted parishioner at Infant Jesus Church, where one of her former students, Father Patrick Riegger, served as pastor. She was also a longtime volunteer at St. Charles Hospital, where she delighted in reconnecting with familiar faces and engaging in heartfelt conversations. She formed many treasured friendships throughout her life, including her dear sister-in-law Midge Snee of Whitestone, NY, her longtime friend and former co-worker Eileen Fox, and many others from her years of teaching and participation in Al-Anon.

Mary had a wonderful sense of humor, often surprising her family with small but meaningful gestures—like bringing home a turtle she found on a walk. She moved to Port Jefferson at the suggestion of her eldest son, John, who believed she would be happiest by the water, and she truly cherished her home and community there. Despite the many challenges she faced, Mary remained a beacon of positivity, strength, and unconditional love.

Her warmth, generosity, and smile will be missed by all who had the privilege of knowing her.

In lieu of flowers, donations in Mary’s memory may be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital. Mary’s life was filled with love, laughter, and perseverance. She leaves behind a beautiful legacy and will be forever in our hearts.