Mary "Tollie" Gary

Mary Carol (Tollie) Gary (Nee McCartney), 86, passed to eternal rest on April 13, 2024.  She was born in Baltimore, Maryland to Thomas J. and Ruth McCartney (Nee McDonald). Tollie was predeceased by her father and mother, her sister R. Eileen McCartney, her husband James D. Gary and by their son, Joseph J. Gary.

Tollie is survived, by her loving children - daughter Molly Zaruba, son-in-law Paul Zaruba, daughter-in-law Angela Gary and son Timothy Gary, by her four granddaughters – Kylie(husband Lucas), Sophia (fiancé Evan), Eva and Celeste, and by her dear siblings - Florence (Beth) Shanahan (Nee McCartney) and Thomas McCartney.

Tollie grew up in the Catholic tradition. She attended St. Bernadine’s Elementary School and graduated from the Institute of Notre Dame (IND) in 1955.  Immediately after high school, Tollie earned a nursing degree from the Bon Secours School of Nursing.

Tollie exemplified love as described in 1 Corinthians - she was ever so patient, kind, humble, empathetic and supportive. Tollie married her sweetheart James (Jim) Gary on Thanksgiving Day of 1958 and shared a life of love for 64+ years until his passing. She also was a perpetual care giver. She served as a nurse for over 50 years, first at Bon Secours Hospital and then in the private practice of Ken Williams and Associates. Many of her years of nursing included the night shift, so that she could be available for her children during the day.  She helped numerous friends and family in times of illness and distress.  She was supportive of the Church and various community outreach programs.

Tollie loved to be with her family and friends. She cherished hosting the infamous, annual Gary 4th of July Party and other holiday events.  She welcomed all to her home and annual family beach trips. She eagerly attended her children’s and grandchildren’s activities and was a fixture at sports games, plays, birthdays and milestone celebrations.   She appreciated a good sunset with a glass of Chardonnay.

Tollie had a kind and generous heart. She loved wholeheartedly and was deeply loved by those who knew her. She will be greatly missed by all of her family and friends.

A visitation will be held at the Candle Light Funeral Home, 1835 Frederick Road, Catonsville, MD 21228 on Monday, April 22, 2024 from 2pm to 4pm and 6pm to 8pm.

A mass of Christian burial will take place Tuesday, April 23, 2024 at 10am at St. Agnes Catholic Church, 5422 Old Frederick Road, Baltimore, MD 21229 and her body will be laid to rest at Lakeview Memorial Park, 2724 Liberty Road, Sykesville, MD 21784.

Immediately following the burial service, there will be a gathering at the Knights of Columbus in Catonsville. The address is 1010 Frederick Rd, Catonsville, MD 21228.  ALL are welcome to join.