Mary Patricia passed away peacefully surrounded by her loving family Dec 14, 2021, one month shy of her 100th birthday.

She grew up in a strong Irish Catholic family in the midst of the Great Depression on her family’s 10-acre farm in the Montavilla neighborhood. She received a scholarship to Oregon State College for clothing design, learned in 4H. Graduating in 1942 with a degree in education, she taught in Portland Public Schools for more than 20 years.

Mary married Donald P. Vernier in 1946 and together they raised six children. Deeply religious and possessing a strong belief in community, she attended Mass regularly at All Saints Parish and actively participated in church events, chairing the Holiday Bazaar and working with the Altar Society. Her faith was paramount to who she was.

People were drawn to Mary with her constant warm smile and open heart. She possessed an inquiring mind and engaged people she encountered by asking about their lives, families and interests. Her upbringing instilled a strong work ethic and she thrived on staying busy canning, sewing and tending her garden.

Mary was preceded in death by her husband, Don, and daughter Sara. She is survived by her children Peter, Paul and Susan Vernier, Patty Cota and Julie Brands; 10 grandchildren; and six great grandchildren.

A private burial has been held.

A Celebration of Life Mass will be held July 14 at 10 a.m. at All Saints Church.

Remembrances to the Vernier Family Scholarship Fund at All Saints School.