Southbridge: Mary Dorothy (May) Congdon, 84, passed away on Thursday, April 30th, in her home after a long illness.

She leaves her three daughters, Susan M. Starkey of Southbridge, Elizabeth Alicea of West Palm Beach, FL, and Catherine Jolicoeur and her husband Kevin of Charlton; her two grandchildren, Joseph Riley and his longtime companion Emily Russo of Boston and Nicole Alicea of Deerfield Beach, FL; and close family friends, Den Cops, who was like a son to her and Eddie O'Brien who cared for her like a mother.  She also leaves her siblings, Betty Coleman, Marty May, Sheila Courchaine, Barbara Boria, Regina Bleau, Maggie May, and Maureen May Manners, as well as many nieces and nephews.  She was predeceased by siblings, Sr. Virginia May OSF, Pat Norton, Grace May, Marion Falcone, Kay Lapointe, John, Lonny, Billy, Frankie, Howie, Bobby, and Kevin May.  She was born in Millbury, the daughter of John and Anna Grace (Kelliher) May.   Mary was a proud graduate of Millbury High School and went on to receive both her bachelor's and master's degree in education from Worcester State College.

Mary was an elementary school teacher in the Southbridge Public School System for over 30 years, teaching primarily 1st grade at Eastford Road Elementary.  After retiring Mary served as a literary volunteer at the library and volunteered with the Harrington Hospital Auxiliary and at the hospital Gift Shop.  She also helped run bingo at the local nursing home.  Mary had a strong faith in God and was a devoted member of St. John Paul II Parish in Southbridge.  She was a member of the St. Vincent de Paul Society and volunteered at the St. John Paul II Food Pantry.  She had great friendships with the seminarians and priests of the parish.  Mary had a kind and generous spirit, bringing a smile and laughter to family and friends she met in her many travels.

Mary's funeral will be held on Thursday, May 7th, from the Daniel T. Morrill Funeral Home, 130 Hamilton St., Southbridge, with a Mass at 11:00am in St. Mary's Church of the St. John Paul II Parish, 263 Hamilton St., Southbridge.  Burial will follow in Oak Ridge Cemetery, Southbridge.  Calling hours in the funeral home will be held Wednesday, May 6th, from 5:00 to 7:00pm.