Mary Goodwin

 Mary Goodwin, (1934-2025), a beloved wife, mother, grandmother, teacher, and lifelong Presbyterian, passed away peacefully on Monday, May 12, at the age of 90, in her home with her devoted son David by her side.

Born in Pittsburgh on December 29th 1934, Mary lived a life marked by love, service, and quiet strength. Mary was the cherished daughter of the late Agassi Pera and Mary Ely Pera and sister to the late Reverend George [Nancy] Pera. She was the beloved wife of the late Paul James Goodwin who preceded her in death in 1984. Together, they built a warm and loving home, raising two sons, Paul and David [Pam]. Her son Paul passed away in 2005, a loss she bore with grace and enduring faith. 

She is also survived by the two lights of her life, her granddaughters, Rachel and Kate Goodwin who brought her immense pride and joy, as well as nieces and nephews, Tracey [Pete] Sanders, David Pera, Jeffrey [Karen] Goodwin and the late Lynn [Jim] Borgman, and James Goodwin.

Besides her family, Mary was proud to be a Penn State alum and lifelong member of Kappa Kappa Gamma.  Mary’s career for over 35 years as a second-grade teacher at Shady Side Academy touched countless lives and she still enjoyed holiday cards and updates from many of her former students. She was deeply committed to education, both in the classroom and as a volunteer, where she continued to give her time long after retirement. Her dedication to her students and her community reflected her steadfast values and her deep-rooted compassion. 

Mary will be dearly missed and her legacy will live on in the lives she shaped with wisdom, warmth, and unwavering love.

In lieu of flowers, contributions in Mary’s memory may be made to Family House or Phipps Conservatory, where she volunteered for many years.

Private interment with visitation at the home of David Goodwin on Thursday, May 22 from 5pm-8pm. Arrangements by John A. Freyvogel Sons, Inc. (freyvogelfuneralhome.com)

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