Mary L. Cooley

Mary L. (Shea) Cooley, 85, of Gardner, died peacefully Saturday, January 17, 2026, in Heywood Hospital, Gardner, after an illness.

Born in Worcester on June 11, 1940, she was the beloved daughter of the late Maurice and Louise (O'Connell) Shea. Mary was a graduate of Northborough High School with the Class of 1958 and went on to enjoy a long and fulfilling career as a jewelry salesperson with JCPenney, where she worked for many years until her retirement.

Mary was a truly artistic soul who found joy in creating beautiful things. She loved working on crafts, painting, crocheting, and woodworking, and most of all baking. She was a talented cake baker and always showed up with the best desserts at family gatherings. She was always keeping her hands busy and her creativity flowing. She also loved to travel and, along with her husband, enjoyed spending many years as snowbirds. Above all else, Mary's greatest joy was her family and her pets, and she cherished the time spent together, treasuring every memory made.

Mary is survived by her devoted husband of many years, Robert V. Cooley of Gardner; two daughters, Amy Holgerson and her husband Les of Hubbardston, and Brenda Guarnieri of Florida; a son, Thomas Cooley of Essex junction, VT; seven grandchildren, Karly, Katie, and Kyle Holgerson, Lindsey and Nicholas Kisiel, Anthony Guarnieri, and Alison Adams; a great-grandchild, Mia Rodriguez; as well as several nieces, nephews, and cousins.

She was predeceased by her siblings, Edward, Maurice, and Richard Shea, Evelyn Casey, and Nancy McManmon.

Burial will be private and held at the convenience of the family.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Alzheimer's Association, 225 North Michigan Avenue, Floor 17, Chicago, IL 60601, or by visiting www.alz.org. Please reference in memory of Mary L. Cooley.