Mary C. Cleary

Mary C. Cleary, age 77, of Glen Mills, PA, formerly of Drexel Hill, PA passed away on May 3, 2024. Born in Philadelphia, she was the daughter of the late John and Kathleen Manidis (nee Hegar). Mary's life was a tapestry woven with threads of compassion, liveliness, and love.

Mary's journey in this world was marked by her continuous devotion to caring for others as a nurse, mother, wife, and friend. She touched the lives of many with her selfless acts and kind words, leaving a lasting impact that will be cherished forever.

Married for 50 years, Jim and Mary raised their children to value family above all else. They created a loving and welcoming home on Foss Avenue, often referring to it as “La Hotel”. Mary found joy in simple pleasures - family dinners, sitting on the beach, and holiday celebrations such as the Feast of the Seven Breakfast Meats.

Mary's gregarious spirit filled rooms with laughter and joy, creating an atmosphere of warmth wherever she went. She enjoyed spontaneous day trips with Jim, reading, shopping, casinos, QVC, and the Hallmark Channel. 

Mary spent her whole life caring for others; in later years, her children and grandchildren embodied that same compassion in caring for her.

Mary was the beloved wife of the late James M. Cleary, III; loving mother of Margaret A. "Peggy" Murphy (Jerry), Brian C. Cleary (Jennifer), Jenny M. Hustek (Tom), Daniel P. Cleary (Jill), and the late Kathleen A. “Katie” Cleary; adoring grandmother of Emily Vandegrift (Tyler), Nora Kramp (Greg), Joshua Murphy, Lily Cleary, Colin Cleary, Molly Murphy, Maura Cleary, Alice Cleary, Declan Cleary, and Ryan Cleary; caring great-grandmother of Evelyn and Olivia Vandegrift; devoted sister of Kathleen McGrath, Christina Billiot (Albert), Andrew Manidis (Kathy), Joseph Manidis, and Paul Manidis (Joanne). Also survived by many loving nieces and nephews.