Mary Ann Bolos

Mary Ann Bolos, age 88, of Utica, went home to be with the Lord on Wednesday, January 17, 2007, at the St. Joseph Nursing Home with her loving family by her side. Born in Utica on July 13, 1918, Mary was the daughter of the late Sam and Ida (Harforsh) Bolos. She was raised here and educated in local schools. At one time, she had been married to the late Dewey Rowlands, and the blessing of that relationship was her three children. For over 30 years, Mary had been a loyal employee of the Boston Store, overseeing the men's shirts and ties department. Many would remember her impeccable taste and sense of style. Prior to her retirement, she worked for the City of Utica in the Purchasing Department. Her honesty and integrity were always seen in her admirable work ethic. As an unconditional and patient mother, Mary gave encouragement and grace to life's blessings and disappointments. Her family will remember and praise her for her ability to be the best and most loving woman they knew. Mary’s soul was filled with true devotion and good works of her Lord. She praised him each day, and her actions were always sincere and her kindnesses were boundless. She prayed for her family and knew no foes. She always shared her love and concern for her fellow man, and ended each greeting with “Jesus Loves You”. A favorite quote of Mary’s was “Jesus Christ is the same yesterday, today, and forever”. With a great devotion to Christian music, Mary played the tambourine with the Music Ministry, a sector of the Friendship with Jesus prayer group which offered her time for personal reflection, and an opportunity to praise and sing to the Lord. She cherished and honored the friendships she formed at the prayer group. Another of Mary’s heartfelt commitments was her monthly prayer meeting on the first Saturday of the month with ‘the boys’ at the Marcy Correctional Facility. Her greatest accomplishment was realized in the past 18 years that she chose to spend Christmas Eve with them to spread the good word of the Lord. It was so fulfilling and enriching for her. Always a gracious host, she was also an excellent cook, and delighted those who came to her table to share a meal and friendship. She was proud to be of the Maronite faith and was a devout parishioner of St. Louis Gonzaga Church. Mary is survived by her daughter and son-in-law, Linda Rowlands-Waters and George Waters, Jr. of Whitesboro. Always close to her heart were the memories of her infant son, Dewey Ralph Rowlands, who preceded her in death, and her daughter, Diane M. Rowlands who passed away in 1993. Also surviving are two grandchildren, Dana Benedetto and Jeffrey Benedetto, both of FL. and a great-grandson, Stefan Emmanuel. In addition, she leaves her sister, Susan Hagen of Florida; her brother and sister-in-law, Anthony and Sadie Bolos of New Hartford; and her nieces, nephews, great-nieces, great-nephews, cousins and her in-law, Ardell Bolos "Big Sis R." Mary was blessed with many wonderful and enriching friendships. She also knew the joy and love of her feline companion, “Noel”. She was predeceased by her siblings and their spouses: Toufek Bolos, Anna and Thomas Abounader, and John Hagen; and a special niece, Joan Farney and her nephew, David Hagen. A heartfelt appreciation is offered to Dr. A.L. Shaheen, Dr. Steven Kussin, Dr. Fayez Chahfe, Dr. Naji El-Khoury, and the St. Joseph Nursing Home 2nd floor staff, nurses, and aides who were the best you could be blessed with. The family is grateful for the kindness and devotion they offered Mary. Also, gratitude is extended to the entire staff of Hospice and Palliative Care, Inc., for their personal attention, and Father Bassam Saade for his visits and prayers. Mary Ann’s wishes were to personally thank everyone who came to see her, because it was so meaningful to her. Linda and George wish to thank their entire family for their support and prayers. In keeping with Mary’s wishes, there will be no public visitation. By family request, please omit floral offerings. Mary would want you to celebrate her life by attending the Divine Liturgy of the Faithful Departed at St. Louis Gonzaga Church on Monday morning at 11:30, to be celebrated by Father Bassam Saade, Pastor. Her family will graciously receive visitors at the conclusion of the service. For those wishing to do so, please consider memorial donations in Mary’s honor to The New Hope Children's Home in Lima, Peru, which was established by her nephew, David and his wife Debbie Bolos; envelopes will be available at the service. Arrangements have been entrusted to the Eannace Funeral Home, Inc., 932 South St., corner of Hammond Ave.

Mary Ann Bolos

July 13, 1918 - January 17, 2007