Mary Elizabeth Carney

Mary Elizabeth Gritsch Carney passed away peacefully at home on July 1, 2024, just a few days before her 102nd birthday. 

Mary was born on July 5, 1922 in Seattle, Washington to Frank Michael Gritsch and Helen Gertrude Carroll. She was the youngest of five children. Mary spent her early childhood on the family wheat ranch in Waterville. She fondly recounted trips to Seattle, small town life and time with her family and grandparents.

Her family moved to Medford, Oregon in 1929. Mary always shared many stories about her brothers and sisters, nieces and nephews. She smiled about flying in a small plane with a boy when she was sixteen (much to her father’s dismay), riding horses bareback, catching a glimpse of movie star, Clark Gable and about her high school graduating class of 18 students. 

In 1940, Mary moved to Portland to attend the University of Portland and St. Vincent Hospital nursing program during WWII. She enjoyed her work, especially with new mothers and babies. Throughout her life she had a special connection with children. 

Mary and Richard (Dick) Carney married in Portland in 1951 here at St. Thomas More church.  Her daughter, Helen, arrived 10 years later. Mary lived in her home for 55 years and in the Council Crest neighborhood for over 70 years. She loved her village of neighbors, family, friends and caregivers. We are forever grateful for all your love, care and support. Your dedication, love and care made it possible for her to stay in her familiar home. 

Mary was preceded in death by Richard, her husband of 62 years, by her sisters, Evelyn and Mildred, and brothers, Carroll and Frank. She is survived by her daughter, Helen Miller (Ralph), granddaughters, Amy Miller and Erin Roger (Jonathan), great-grandson George Roger and twenty nieces and nephews.

In remembrance of Mary,

please go meet your neighbors. 

Reach out to extended family.

Stay in touch with friends from near and far.

Share hope, community and summer flowers in her memory.