| CONDOLENCES (GuestBook) |
8/23/2020 Janna Peterson
Sharon, Massachusetts, United States
I want to extend my sympathies to the family. I had Miss Pender as my first grade teacher at the Pond Plain School. I remembered her often through the years and was grateful for the wonderful teacher she was. Even at a young age and as a timid first grader, she always made her room a welcoming place and her love for her students was apparent to me even then. Many years later I also had her brother as my math teacher at WHS. Another great teacher as well. May good memories bring you comfort.
8/23/2020 Joseph Buteau
Homoasassa, FL, United States
8/24/2020 Steve Coleman
Albuquerque, NM, USA
I vividly remember Miss Pender in 1961, dressed in a white blouse, assigning us seats in our first grade classroom at Pond Plain School, downstairs all the way to the left. A highlight of the year was her walking us down the hall to the little gym where we assembled in front of a black and white tv with rabbit ears to watch John Glenn’s launch into space. We all cheered wildly as Shorty Powers finished the countdown and the rocket lifted off. Years later I was a freshman in her brother’s Algebra classroom at Westwood High when Apollo 13 ran into trouble. Mr. Pender rolled another black and white television into class, and for the next few days we watched the drama unfold while he explained the importance of math in trying to rescue the mission. Both Penders imparted a fascination and marvel over space exploration that lives on in me to this day. Teachers often wonder if they made a difference. Clearly, in their case, the answer is yes. They both saw the best in their students and made young people want to fulfill that promise. Thanks, and best wishes to Miss Pender’s family.
8/25/2020 Beth and Wes
West Roxbury, MA, USA
I met Mary in 1992 as she prepared for her retirement, her next big life journey. Mary was my neighbor, my friend, my teacher, a warm shoulder, and often my compass. She enjoyed life to its fullest. She loved her book club, her golf outings with friends, her trips to the theatre, Symphony and museums, travel to visit her family and special places, her home and her beautiful flowers. She was an avid sports fan. I learned never to call during a Celtics game! I honor her legacy by trying to be the best person I can be. I will miss her everyday, but I know that her spirit is buzzing around me, helping us all to live life to its fullest, help others in need, and offering a warm and everlasting smile.
8/25/2020 Nancy (Sullivan )Ryan
Hingham, Ma, Plymouth
As a long time class member of BSC and former cape roomate, I appreciate all that Mary was to so many in her life. A sweet, thoughtful, smart woman who will be missed by many. Rest in Peace.
8/26/2020 Lisa Tunney Scibilia
Norfolk, MA, USA
My deepest condolences to Miss Pender's family. I was lucky to be her 6th grade student at the Downey School in Westwood in 1982-1983. She was a wonderful and kind teacher and I'm thankful to have had her in my life. All my best to your family.
8/26/2020 Patricia Cronin
Green Harbor , MA, USA
My thoughts and prayers are with you, her loving family. Mary always was kind, loving, and enjoyed life! She never missed a reunion from Boston State, class of ‘59. We all looked forward to seeing one another and getting caught up with all the news! May she Rest In Peace knowing what an exceptional life she lived!
8/27/2020 Carol Donovan
Stoughton, MA, United States
As a third grade teacher at the Downey School in the fall of 1978, I had the pleasure of getting to know Mary. We kept in touch for decades. Best memory: a close-up table at the Olde Irish Alehouse for The Clancy Brothers. Rest in peace, Mary.