Mary Jane Dufresne

1948 - 2026

Mary Jane Dufresne, 77, passed away at Samaritan Medical Center on February 25, 2026, following a brief illness.

Mary was born on May 9, 1948, the daughter of the late Edward and Margaret Heinrich of Adams. She attended South Jefferson Central School, graduating in 1967.

She is survived by her two daughters and their families: Lisa Scofield and her husband, Mark, of Indiana; and Sarah and Eric Pond/Johnson of Sacket Harbor. She is also survived by her grandchildren, Natalie and Tyler Johnson, and Taylor and Tori Scofield; her brother, Edward Heinrich of Marcellus; and her sister, Jeanne Spry of Watertown.

She was predeceased by her husband, John Dufresne; her sister, Anne Rausch; and her parents, Edward and Margaret Heinrich.

Mary was a devoted wife and homemaker. She and John owned and operated the family farm, Painful Acres, on North Harbor Road. After selling their dairy cows they opened Painful Acres Amish Furniture. Mary had an eye for fine hardwood furniture and was a skilled decorator.

She was a leader in the local 4-H Club when her girls were young and was also a member of several local quilt guilds. In retirement, Mary enjoyed traveling to quilt shops with friends. She and John traveled to many places across the United States in their RV, visiting friends and family along the way.

Mary loved spending time with her grandchildren. She enjoyed sitting with her kitties while reading a good book, going to lunch with her sister and friends, and collecting fabric for the many quilts she hoped to complete.

We are in complete shock at losing our mother so soon after losing our dad, but we take comfort in knowing they are together again.

In accordance with Mary’s wishes, there will be no formal services. A celebration of life for both John and Mary will be held in the spring at the farm on North Harbor Road in Adams Center.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Smithville Fire Department.

Arrangements are with the Reed & Benoit Funeral Home, Watertown.

Online condolences to the Fayette family may be made at www.reedbenoit.com.