SPRINGFIELD CENTER - 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 at 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 best man. Ray and Mary moved 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 Arden's 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. They purchased a new truck and camper 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 in 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 at 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.

Family and friends may call and pay their respects from 11a.m. to 1 p.m., Saturday, June 22, at Ottman Funeral Home, 22 Church St., Cherry Valley. At 1 p.m., a funeral service will be offered at the funeral home with Pastor Ron Fralick officiating. Interment in Springfield Cemetery will follow.

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

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

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