Mary Dow Patterson of Bethel passed away on October 16, 2025, at home surrounded by her loving family.

She was born on July 3, 1939, in Evanston, Illinois, and was the only child to Walter and Mary Dow. She was predeceased by her mother, father, husband, and daughter.

Mary was the shining light of her family. She was one of those rare people blessed with enough love and energy for three lifetimes. She packed it all into one extraordinary life where she was a cherished daughter, wife, mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother.

She wore many hats over the years and thrived in every role. She had an incredible ability to bring people together as an ordained minister, teacher, farm-educator, housing administrator, author, artist, and more. No matter what role she held, she brought the same infectious enthusiasm and genuine care for people to everything she did. She was able to juggle both souls and apples all while making those around her feel seen, heard, and loved.

Her writing and art were lifelong passions. She published poetry, books of all genres, and countless articles for newspapers, magazines, and newsletters. Her paintings captured the beauty of the natural world, and her knitting kept many warm.

Her faith, love of education, and community service were her guiding light. She earned a master’s degree in theology from Oxford University, served on countless boards, and volunteered in whatever capacity and community she resided. She was recognized as an outstanding leader of our community, receiving countless awards and accolades.

In her later years, she enjoyed life as a snowbird, flying south to Vero Beach, Florida, where she continued finding meaning in service to her community and time with her children and grandchildren. Mary believed in celebrating everything — “not just apple pie,” as she once wrote. Through her actions, she taught us to find joy in ordinary moments and meaning in service to others.

With Mary being an only child, she always wanted a big family, and happily, she accomplished this with six children, 18 grandchildren, and 16 great-grandchildren. She will be missed dearly by all.

In lieu of flowers, Mary would have loved donations to go to St Jude Children’s Research Hospital, your local food bank or senior center, or any organization that helps bring people together in community — just as she spent her life doing.

To light a candle and leave a condolence please visit cornellmemorial.com.