May God shine His light upon our cousin and grant peace to her family and loved ones. Our thought and prayers are with Mary and all of you. - Victor, Shannon, Jared, Alisia, Lillia, and Gavin

There are no words to describe my sister Mary. Her void consumes the air...her life and engery make a difference to everyone she met, especially her students. This endowment pays an incredible tribute to her and her family.

Mary was such a special person and I see so much of her joyous and gentle spirit in our dear friend Andrew. Drew and I are so sorry for your loss and we keeping your whole family in our thoughts. Sending love and hugs.

I miss Mary so much. She was a special type of person -both a leader and a team player, she was a masterful educator, but was always humble, approachable, and friendly. She was genuine; made her fellow educators feel heard, even if she didn't agree...  moreI miss Mary so much. She was a special type of person -both a leader and a team player, she was a masterful educator, but was always humble, approachable, and friendly. She was genuine; made her fellow educators feel heard, even if she didn't agree with them. Mary knew when to fight and when to quietly assess a situation. She was not afraid to speak up about what she believed in, but always showed respect to those with differing view points; always took other peoples' feelings into consideration. In her classroom, students knew that they were safe and cared for, but also that they couldn't get much past their teacher. Mary truly cared for others. She made those around her feel respected, valued, and loved. She put worried parents at ease in IEP meetings, gave new teachers shelter from the storm, and provided all those around her with a sense of warmth and acceptance. I'll miss brainstorming with her, stressing out with her, and just having everyday conversation with her across the lunch table. I'll miss her sense of humor and getting to laugh with her. I'll miss her resilience, and the sense of confidence she inspired in others. I'll miss that little sparkle in her eye when she was making mischief or hatching a plan. Most of all, I'll miss her smile.

Rest well my friend. Know that you touched the lives of so many of those around you and that you made a difference in this world. I'll keep your smile close to my heart.  less

I knew Mary as an exemplary Special Educator. She took student teachers for CSUCI and modeled how an excellent teacher can be! I observed in her class many times and her organization, high expectations and care for each of her students was very...  moreI knew Mary as an exemplary Special Educator. She took student teachers for CSUCI and modeled how an excellent teacher can be! I observed in her class many times and her organization, high expectations and care for each of her students was very apparent. She has changed the lives of many many young students over the years, as well as coaching and encouraging new young teachers in the field. A life that touches so many is a life well lived. Rest In Peace, Mary!
Fran Arner-Costello  less