Mary Patricia Vessa

Mary Patricia Vessa Passed away peacefully, surrounded by her loving family on January 8, 2007. Mary was born in Pittsburgh, PA, the youngest of four children of the late Joseph and Loretta McConville. Mary leaves her daughter Julie Scott (David), her sister Margaret McLaughlin, and numerous nieces, nephews, her loving in-laws and many friends. Mary moved with her family to Santa Monica, CA, in 1958 where she met her future husband Gilbert Vessa. They married in 1960, and Mary started a job with an ad agency. She later moved into the banking business and ultimately relocated with her husband and daughter to San Rafael, buying a home just a handful of houses away from her sister Margaret and family. The sisters were especially close and together they collaborated and hosted most holiday events, with Christmas Eve celebrations being the most beautiful and memorable. Mary loved the Christmas season, and she and Gil would decorate their home with dazzling style. As sick as she was this past Christmas, Mary managed to orchestrate a beautiful display in the home she later shared with Margaret. Mary's next career move began in 1999 as the Outreach Coordinator for St. Isabella's Church. She was the perfect person for the job. Callers to the rectory were always greeted with warmth and kindness. She created the volunteer-run Good Samaritans program which organizes receptions for funerals and she gave heart and soul to the Giving Tree program. In addition to her parents, Mary is predeceased by her loving husband Gil, their baby Gilbert, and her two brothers, Joseph and Edward. Mary will forever be remembered for her style, the smile in her voice, her warmth, compassion and deep love for all of her family and for her many dear friends. A Memorial Service will be held at St. Isabella's Church, 1 Trinity Lane, San Rafael, California, on Saturday, January 13th, 2007, at 11:00 a.m. Reception will follow immediately in the parish center.