Born in Newark, to Dr. Thomas A. Shaffrey and Alice Wheeler Shaffrey, Mary was a devoted wife, mother, business operator, and professional educator whose life touched many diverse activities and people. Educated at Loyola University of Rome, Italy, she completed her undergraduate studies at Seton Hall University and earned a master’s degree in education at Montclair State University.

Mary was an instructor at the Academy of Saint Elizabeth Convent Station for many years, teaching English and Irish literature, Latin, and classical mythology at the high school level. She also operated a commercial calligraphy business, using her artistic skills to hand address/personalize event invitations, announcements and specialized documents. Community service was important to her and she volunteered significant time and energy in Livingston for the Hillside Elementary School and Aquinas Academy PTAs, as well as serving as an assistant adult leader to two Girl Scouts ofAmerica troops. She also was proficient at her crocheting hobby and created a wide range of handmade items, including sweaters, blankets and unique gifts. Mary’s creativity was evident in the annual miniature Christmas village she constructed, adding features and expanding each year. She was an enthusiastic traveler, both domestic and international and served as a chaperone for several scholastic trips abroad. Mary particularly enjoyed her annual visits to relatives in Dublin, Ireland. She was best known for her unwavering dedication to family and friends, creativity, compassion for all, outgoing personality and can-do spirit.

Mary was predeceased by both parents and an older brother, John Shaffrey. She is survived by her husband of 46 years, George T. Pantos; daughters, Caitlin Elizabeth Pantos and Lauren Meredith Pantos; and son Jake Theodore Pantos. She is also survived by her sister, Kathleen Schoengrund; and brother, Thomas A. Shaffrey.

Funeral services for Mary were private and a memorial event celebrating her life is being planned. In keeping with her love of and support for children, donations in her honor can be made to St. Jude’s Children’s Hospital and The Valerie Fund.