SPRINGFIELD - Mary E. Roberts, 74, of Springfield Center, passed away on Feb. 21, 2024, at Bassett Medical Center with family by her side.

Mary was born on Dec. 9, 1949, to Robert and Shirley Bridger.

She graduated from Springfield Central School in 1968 as class valedictorian. She was a 1970 graduate of SUNY Delhi, earning her degree in veterinary services.

Following graduation, Mary was employed as a laboratory technician with Bassett Hospital.

On April 3, 1971 Mary married Sgt. Ray Roberts. Her sister, Sharon Smith was her matron of honor. Kenneth Smith, her brother-in-law, was the best man. Ray and Mary relocated to Anchorage, Alaska, where Ray was stationed in the United States Air Force. During their time there, Mary worked at Matanuska Plant, as well as Ardens Milk Plant.

The couple added two daughters to their family, both born at Elmendorf AFB.

In 1976 the family flew back to New York to visit family, whereupon they purchased a new truck and camper, then used them to travel across Canada and the Alcan Highway back to Elmendorf AFB.

In 1981, the family moved back home to Springfield Center and established the family farm known as R&M Marshland. In addition to tending their farm, Mary also enjoyed helping to milk cows on her parents' farm in the evenings for many years.

In 1981 Mary rejoined Bassett with the Central Laboratory Processing section. In 1987 Mary was presented with the Jan A. Schultes Memorial Award for professional excellence. She went on to serve with Bassett for more than 34 years, before retiring in December of 2015.

For several years Mary participated in America's Greatest Heart Run and Walk.

In addition to tending the family farm, she also took great pleasure in puzzles, reading and gardening. As an avid canner, she loved sharing her bounty with family and friends. On most Friday nights, she enjoyed finding treasures at the Eggleston auctions. Mary took delight in walking with her best friend, Linda Putnam, at Glimmerglass State Park. Mary is survived by her husband of 54 years, Ray Roberts; daughters, Patricia (Jeremy) Preston and Amy (Robert) Boyer; five grandchildren, Sarah (Fides), Hunter (Paige), Olivia, Claudia, and Brandon. She is also survived by her sister, Sharon (Ken) Smith and brother, Gary Bridger; in addition to numerous nieces and nephews.

Mary was predeceased by her parents; sister, Joann; and brothers, Robert Jr. and Richard.

Funeral and burial services will be held in the spring at Ottman Funeral Home in Cherry Valley and Springfield Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be considered to Springfield First Responders, P.O. Box 358, Springfield Center, NY 13468.

Arrangements are under the care of Ottman Funeral Home, Cherry Valley.

To send online condolences please visit www.ottmanfuneralhome.com.