Mary Ann A. Holley, 79, of Pottsville passed away Wednesday, January 26, at home in peaceful surroundings with loved ones by her side. She was born to the late Vincent and Agnes (Bauer) Smith on September 24, 1942 in Pottsville. Mary Ann was a graduate of Nativity B.V.M. High school Class of 1961. She was a member of St. John the Baptist Roman Catholic Church, Pottsville. In addition to her parents she was preceded in death by her husband, George (Dutch )Holley in 1999, a daughter, Theresa Higgins, infant granddaughter Zoie Marie, as well as her siblings, Agnes Trout, Robert, Joseph, and most recently Edward Smith. Mary Ann is survived by her daughter and caretaker, Deborah Holley-Purcell and her son-in-law, Mark Purcell with whom she resided, along with her adopted son, grandson Mark Holley. A daughter, Mary Ann Holley-Wagner, and a son, John Holley. She had 12 loving grandchildren and a host of great grandchildren. She and her daughter Deborah often took trips that strengthened her faith and bond with each other. She loved to visit Our Lady of Lourdes in Emmitsburg, MD. She also visited the catacombs and truly enjoyed the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception in Washington D.C. Mary Ann worked for many years at Hills Dept. Store. She often laughed telling stories of how they carried on in the back room recalling fun times with her coworkers. Later in life she worked as an aide caring for students with special needs where she loved helping and making a difference in their lives. She continued her career caring for others in their homes. She consistently went above and beyond to ensure all their needs were met, including making special trips, running errands, and doing small repairs and chores on her days off. Mary Ann had such a compassionate heart and loving spirit. She will be greatly missed. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated, Monday, 12:00 pm at Saint John the Baptist Church. Pottsville. All are respectfully invited to attend a visitation with calling hours Monday from 10:00 to 11:30 am at the Mahal-Ritzel Funeral Home Inc, Minersville. Interment Saint John the Baptist Cemetery, Pottsville. All current COVID-19 CDC guidelines should be followed. Mahal-Ritzel Funeral Home Inc., Minersville, entrusted with the arrangements.
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