Mary was born in Philadelphia on April 1, 1924, to John and Rose (Pazyck) Kwasniewski. From an early age, she loved reading, music, and animals, especially dogs. Mary formed friendships in elementary school with a core group that lasted throughout their lives. She met her late husband, Reginald A. Stammers, a Chief Petty Officer in the Royal Navy, when she accompanied a musician friend hired to entertain servicemen staying in Philadelphia during WWII. Mary and Reginald married in August 1944 and shared their lives for 62 years. Because her husband’s work caused him to travel extensively, Mary managed the household, caring for their five children while keeping everything running smoothly and within budget. She was a DIYer, recycler, and yogurt maker before these practices were trendy. Mary enjoyed a good cup of tea while catching up on her “stories” between household chores, the occasional small snifter of Bailey’s Irish Cream, and silly riddles. Her favorite times were the holidays or impromptu gatherings with her extended family and friends at home.
Throughout her century on earth, Mary was guided by tight family bonds, steadfast friendships, and an unwavering Catholic faith. Her belief in God and the teachings of the Church were a source of strength and comfort, even as her health declined. She often shared with her compassionate caregivers at the Birches at Harleysville and, lastly, Norriton Square Nursing and Rehabilitation Center, how blessed she had been with her wonderful family.
Mary was predeceased by her parents, her brother, John, her husband, her sons, Stanley and John R., her daughter, Dorothy, and her grandson, Timothy. Left to cherish her memory are her children, Barbara A. Stammers, Joseph E. Stammers (Yvonne), James A. Stammers (Barbara), and Patricia A. Sieber (Douglas); her daughter-in-law, Kathleen Stammers; four grandchildren; and two great-grandchildren.
A funeral mass will be held at 10:30 AM, May 8, 2024, at St. John the Evangelist Catholic Church, 752 Big Oak Road, Morrisville, Pennsylvania 19067.