Mary Ann Furey, 83

Mary Ann Furey, 83, of Avon, died quietly May 21, 2022.

Born Aug. 16, 1938, in Hanoverton, she graduated from Augusta High School in 1956.

Prior to attending Kent State University where she received a degree in Art Education, Mary Ann spent several years as an illustrator for Higbees Department Stores. She began her career as an art teacher at Avon High School and later taught at Elmhurst High School. She added photography to the art programs. Always focused on her students’ potential and dreams, she guided many young people who aspired to use their artistic skills. During her summers, she returned to Hanoverton where she held ceramics and craft classes for local residents. 

She played the organ at St. Mary’s of the Immaculate Conception Catholic Church in Avon for many years where she also offered free organ lessons. 

She retired after 42 years of teaching and pursued her interest in antiques and collectibles. Within a few years, she opened her own shop, Long Long Ago, and for more than 15 years sold her own treasures and rented space to others to display and sell their collectibles. She supported local festivals and community events by having a Long Long Ago booth where she sold collectibles and crafts she made. 

She is survived by her sister, Betty Ray; her brother, Daniel J. Furey; and numerous nieces and nephews. 

She was preceded in death by her mother, Anna Labenz and her father, Daniel P. Furey.

Funeral services were held May 31 at Maple-Cotton Funeral Home in Kensington officiated by Fr. Wassie. Burial followed in St. Paul’s Cemetery in Dungannon.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital in Mary Ann’s name.