Mary Catherine Stoddart

It is with profound sadness and immense love that we announce the passing of our cherished mother, Mary Catherine Stoddart. She left this world on August 13, 2025, surrounded by the deep love of her family, leaving behind a legacy of compassion, perseverance, wee walks, devotion to family, and the gift of grace.

Mary was born in Edinburgh, Scotland, on July 13, 1938, to Owen and Mary Clarke. She was the youngest of five children—predeceased by her siblings Elsie Maureen, Margaret Rose, and Owen James—and survived by her beloved sister, Sarah (Sally) McKim.

On August 29, 1960, Mary married the love of her life, Frances Peter Stoddart. Together they built a beautiful life, rooted in devotion, laughter, and mutual respect. In 1961, they courageously embarked on a new chapter, immigrating to the United States with their firstborn child. Over the years, they raised four children of whom Mary was exceedingly proud: Frank, Ian, Douglas, and Moira.

Mary’s pride and joy extended to her role as mother-in-law to Deborah Wolf Stoddart and Laura Kay Stoddart and a grandmother to eight remarkable grandchildren—Timothy Grant Stoddart (wife Juliana), Alexandra Fox Stoddart, Molly Stoddart (husband Cameron Kirk), Ellie Stoddart, Frankie Stoddart, Sydney Lee Stoddart, Liam Douglas Stoddart, and Shelby Catherine Stoddart Ryder—and as great-grandmother to Owen Stoddart-Kirk, Julian Stoddart, and Willow Stoddart.

A Life of Dedication and Achievement 

Mary’s career in nursing was a testament to her determination, skill, and unshakable work ethic. She entered nursing school at the age of 16, setting the foundation for a lifelong commitment to health care. Upon arriving in America, she rebuilt her credentials from the ground up—first working as a nursing assistant at Germantown Hospital, then passing her U.S. nursing boards to serve as a Registered Nurse.

Her talent and leadership were quickly recognized. Mary rose from Head Nurse to Assistant Director of Nursing, and ultimately Director of Nursing. She further distinguished herself by earning a Master’s degree in Gerontology—a proud milestone for her and her family—and sharing her expertise as a professor at LaSalle University.

Mary also served as both Director of Nursing and a Board member at Stapley, where her commitment to patient care and mentoring the next generation of nurses left an indelible mark. Through every professional challenge and triumph, she balanced her career with raising four college-educated children, instilling in them the value of education, resilience, and kindness.

A Beloved Mother, Sister, Friend, and Woman 

Mary’s life was defined not only by professional accomplishments but by the countless ways she cared for others. Her home was a place of welcome, her words a source of comfort, and her presence a reminder of what it means to live with integrity and love.

Her wisdom was steady, her laughter contagious, and her pride in her family boundless. She led by example; showing that ambition and compassion could walk hand in hand, that hard work and joy could coexist, and that one person’s love could ripple through generations.

Celebrating Her Life 

Services will be held on Monday, August 25, 2025, at Summit Presbyterian Church. Fellowship will be from 4:00–5:00 p.m., followed by services beginning at 5:00 p.m. A celebration of life will immediately follow. In lieu of flowers, please send donations to the Philadelphia Trail Club or Alzheimer's Foundation.

Mary Catherine Stoddart leaves behind a lifetime of memories, a family united in love, and a legacy that will continue to inspire all who knew her.