Mary Dimock

Mary Roberta (Thompson) Dimock born November 4th, 1953, passed away peacefully in her sleep on July 5th after a long struggle with chronic health issues. Mary was the beloved oldest child of Robert L. Thompson and Mary B. (Tunney) Thompson, both deceased. A natural caretaker, Mary enjoyed her role as oldest, and set a positive example for her four younger siblings. Mary is survived by her sisters Katherine DeCoste (husband Lawrence) of Gloucester, MA, Janet Donnelly (husband Robert) of Guilford, CT, Barbara Thompson of Washington, D.C., and her brother Frederic Thompson (wife Druscilla) of Gloucester, MA. Mary's greatest joy was her family, especially her daughter Maureen Dimock Clark, son-in-law Ian, and her granddaughter, Maren, who lit up her world these last 5 years. Although divorced, Mary maintained a strong friendship with her ex-husband, Russell Dimock of Agawam, MA, who will forever be the love of her life. Mary also leaves behind her dear friends, Wanda Lemire of Agawam, MA, Thomas and Susan McCarthy of Conway, MA, and her daughter's best friend with whom Mary shared the special bond of nursing, Karen Braccialarghe of Broad Brook, CT. Mary was predeceased by two very good friends, Tommy and Lois Manville of Feeding Hills, MA. She also leaves several cousins, nieces and nephews.

Mary was born and raised in the fishing town of Gloucester, MA, a place she loved dearly and enjoyed sharing with others. Mary was a 1971 graduate of Gloucester High School and completed her bachelor's degree in nursing and RN at the University of Massachusetts Amherst in 1975. A compassionate and dedicated nurse, Mary was known for her bedside manner and curious mind. She remained invested in helping others throughout her life, whether it be with medical support, providing shelter, making phone calls, or offering odd jobs for income. As someone who recognized her own challenges, she was able to extend an understanding and acceptance to others who struggled, often building connections for mutual support.

Mary treasured the simple things in life. In earlier years, she loved tending to her home and garden, spending hours in the pool playing beach ball, and countless games of cat & mouse, get over here, and piggyback rides with Maureen. Mary was a collector of vintage antiques, and she and Russ at one time had their own little shop. Their daughter was the only 7-year-old with her own salt & pepper collection, an attempt to keep her engaged when they would go antiquing. Mary loved animals and through the years she was fortunate to love and be loved by many dogs and cats. A few notable furry family members are Kelly, Cortez, Charlie, Bernie, Mabel, Coco Marie, Simon, and Zoey. Mary had a great sense of humor, a contagious laugh, and a quick wit. She loved the oldies and classic country music. Despite living in Western MA for most of her adult life, she never lost her North Shore accent, and maintained a deep love of seafood especially "chowdah and lobstah." Mary treasured her visits with Maren watching her play with her latest toy. She got such a kick out of Maren's love of washing Nana's windows and checking her drawers for surprises; the two loved sharing treats of petit fours and Friendly's ice cream.

Although most of her travel consisted of trips to TJ Maxx to get the best find or to local antique shops, Mary and Russ took an epic cross-country honeymoon in 1976 spending several months driving across the country where they got odd jobs along the way and had many wonderful adventures. Mary also enjoyed the many visits she made to see her youngest sister in Washington, D.C., and the yearly family vacations in Wells, ME where Mary, Russ, & Maureen would meet up with her parents, Bob and Mary, at the Seagull. Maureen, Ian, and Maren continue to keep this tradition alive.

From Maureen: I would pick my mother to be my mother again in any and every lifetime. She was simply wonderful in all her imperfections. I am who I am today, in part, because of her and I would not change a thing (except to have her longer and only in good health). She was my first role model of genuine unconditional acceptance of people and oneself. The best parts of her live on in me and those who knew her - may we continue to share them with the world. Mom - you were my best friend, and I will miss you forever. See you later alligator...

In lieu of flowers, memorial gifts may be made in Mary's name to the Dakin Humane Society at 171 Union Street Springfield, MA 01105. Services will be held privately. A Celebration of Life will be held at a later date.