Mary Kennedy

In Loving Memory of Mary (Barrett) Kennedy

Mary (Barrett) Kennedy, a cherished wife, mother, grandmother, educator, and passionate runner, passed away at the age of 71 on Saturday, March 8, 2025, after a brave and resilient 15-year battle with lung cancer. Born on February 13, 1954, in Hoboken, NJ, and a resident of Easton, PA, Mary leaves behind an enduring legacy of love, strength, and perseverance that touched the hearts of all who knew her.

A dedicated educator, Mary made a lasting impact during her 25-year career as a math teacher at Ferris High School in Jersey City, NJ. Her devotion to her students extended far beyond the classroom; she also served as the head coach for the boys’ and girls’ track teams for 10 years. Mary was also an adjunct professor at Saint Peter’s College in Jersey City, NJ, where she inspired and shaped the minds of many young learners.

Outside of her professional life, Mary was a passionate runner, completing 10 full marathons, over 14 half marathons, and countless 5Ks and 10Ks. Her dedication to running reflected the same inner strength and resilience that defined her life. She also had a deep love for the outdoors, enjoying hiking, camping, and kayaking, and was a proud member of the Green Pond Ya Ya Hiking Club.

Mary’s involvement in her community was extensive. She was an active member of Saint Mary’s Ukrainian Church in Allentown, PA, and a supporter of Friends of Levitt and Arts Quest. Her commitment to enhancing the lives of others through teaching, coaching, and supporting local cultural initiatives was evident in all she did.

A devoted wife for 51 years, Mary shared a deep and loving partnership with her husband, John Kennedy. Together, they raised three sons: Damian (Pam) of West Caldwell, NJ; Patrick (Erica) of Coconut Creek, FL; and Sean of Fort Lauderdale, FL. Mary was proud to be a grandmother to five grandchildren: Brendan, Connor, Mary Grace, Isabella, and Sofia, whose joy and laughter filled her life.

Mary is also survived by her siblings: Margie (Peter) Capaccio, Maureen (Eugene) Scerbo, and Brian Barrett. She was preceded in death by her parents, George and Peggy Barrett, and her brother, William (Billy) Barrett. Mary’s love, wisdom, and grace will continue to resonate with her many nieces, nephews, and dear friends, all of whom will miss her deeply.

Mary was a woman of remarkable strength, unyielding spirit, and a heart full of love. Her legacy will forever live on in the lives of those who were fortunate enough to know her. Her kindness, wisdom, and unwavering love will inspire and guide all who remember her.

Visitation Hours have been scheduled for Wednesday, March 12, 2025, from 3:00 to 7:00 PM at the Finegan Funeral Home, 4080 William Penn Highway, Easton, PA, with a Funeral Service set to immediately follow. Also, PARASTAS Service will take place Wednesday at 4:30 PM.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to Saint Mary Ukrainian Church in Allentown, PA, 1031 Fullerton Avenue, Allentown, PA 18102, 610-820-0821, Pokrova-allentown.org.

May she rest in peace, forever remembered and loved.