Mary F. Ciarlone

Mary F. (Swift) Ciarlone, 89, of Downingtown, slipped peacefully into heaven on Thursday, January 9, 2025, at Simpson Meadows. She was the loving wife of the late Leo F. Ciarlone, Jr., who passed in 1988.
Born in Philadelphia on January 25, 1935, Mary was the daughter of the late Richard and Julia (Oprendek) Swift and graduated from St. Patrick's Catholic High School in Norristown. In 1955 she married Leo, started a family, and moved to Downingtown where they spent the rest of their days. In 1974, Mary took an administrative job with the newly chartered Jefferson Bank in Downingtown, where she eventually rose to Vice President of Human Resources, retiring in 2000.
Mary was blessed with a servant's heart, which in turn made her a blessing to all she met. Her entire life of selfless devotion to husband, children, extended family, and community is a model of faith in action. People who called her Mary, Mom, Grandma Mary, Aunt Mary, or Mrs. Ciarlone each knew that they were important to her, while learning to make room in their hearts for others.
Mary was an active member of St. Joseph's Catholic Church in Downingtown for 70 years. With her husband, Leo, she co-founded the St. Joseph's Home and School Association. Their tireless efforts in organizing and coordinating a large group of parent-volunteers introduced the parish children to weekly hot lunches, equipment for outdoor recess activities, and class field trips.
Mary was also deeply involved in volunteering for several Downingtown community organizations, playing an integral role in their planning and success. She was a member of the Lions Club in Downingtown, receiving their prestigious Melvin Jones Award in 2008. Additionally, she was an active member of the Prime Timers and served as Queen Mum of the local chapter of the Red Hat Society.
When not helping others, Mary enjoyed traveling throughout the United States and abroad amassing a collection of coffee mugs that was a legend in itself. Closer to home, she was a loyal Phillies fan and loved to bake. Her family, friends, neighbors, and charities will miss her sweet treats.
Surviving are her children David Ciarlone, husband of Gail, of Pittsburgh, Paul Ciarlone, husband of Dana, of Jenkintown, Loretta Herring, wife of Pete, of Downingtown, and Alan Ciarlone, husband of Modesta, of Drexel Hill; grandchildren Michael (Jae), Leo (Claire), Anne, Megan (Ben), Andrew (Lauren), Dustin (Leetah), Katie, and Erica (Alex); great grandchildren Harley, Declan, and Madison; and dozens of devoted nieces and nephews. In addition to her husband Leo, she was preceded in death by her newborn daughter Ann, and her sisters Madge Conroy and Rita Flack.
A Mass of Christian Burial and Celebration of Mary's Life will be held on what would have been her 90th birthday, Saturday, January 25, 2025, at 11:00 AM St. Joseph's Catholic Church, 332 Manor Avenue, Downingtown, PA 19335. Visitation will be from 9:45 to 10:45 AM, prior to the Mass at the church. A private interment will follow at a later date with the family.
In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made in Mary's memory to Mary Ciarlone Scholarship Fund | St. Joseph School or a check can be mailed to St. Joseph School Attn: Allan L. Anderson 332 Manor Avenue Downingtown, PA 19335.