Mary Patricia Burke Apps

Born in 1928 and raised in the close-knit community of Scotia, New York, Mary grew up in a time when milk and ice were delivered to the doorstep and neighbors looked out for one another. She had two older brothers and a loving Mother and Father. Her early years shaped the warmth, steadiness, and sense of tradition that defined her throughout her life.

Mary attended Siena College part-time in the evening for eight years while working six days a week at General Electric in Schenectady. She had to attend the evening division because, as she would say, "Back then they didn't allow girls in the day courses." After graduation, Mary worked as an editor of Technical Publications at GE before deciding to pursue a master's degree in elementary education. She taught fourth-grade in Oneonta, N.Y. until 1967 when she married the love of her life and helped raise his six children. They eventually settled in Greenville and later retired in Atlanta.

In Atlanta, Mary stayed active well into her 80s, playing ALTA tennis with friends and neighbors, bringing both competitiveness and camaraderie to the court. She enjoyed reading, cross-stitching, knitting, playing the dulcimer, and being a storyteller—always creating, always learning.

Throughout her long and rich life, Mary was a passionate traveler. Alongside her husband, she explored the world via 50+ Elderhostel adventures, embracing new cultures and lifelong learning well into her later years.

Mary will be remembered for her deep faith, steady presence, inquisitive mind, and the simple grace with which she lived. She was the embodiment of quiet strength, deep curiosity, and gentle humor. Her legacy lives on in the lives she touched—as a teacher, stepmother, friend, and fellow traveler.

A funeral mass for Mary will be held Friday, July 18, 2025 at 2:00 PM at St. Peter Chanel Catholic Church, 11330 Woodstock Rd, Roswell, GA 30075. Following the service, Mary will be laid to rest at Green Lawn Cemetery, 950 Mansell Rd, Roswell, GA 30076.