Mary Ella Maher

With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of Mary Ella Maher, a beloved wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and friend to many, who left this world on July 17, 2026, at the age of 92. Born in Kansas City, Missouri, on April 1, 1934, Mary was the cherished daughter of Mary and Robert Wayne Murray. She was preceded in death by her parents, her sister Patsy Musso, and her brothers Tim and John Murray. She met the love of her life, James Deven Maher, and they were married on January 30, 1960,at Saint John the Baptist Catholic Church in Folsom, California. Together, they shared 66 years of marriage, nurturing a family that includes their five children: Donald, Keith (Donna), Mary (Jay), Valerie (Bob), and Heather (Ryan). Her legacy continues through her grandchildren Jacob, Sarah, Austin, Connor, Kelli, Cameron, Clint, and Kendra, and her adored great-grandchildren Sage, Saint, and Bo. After graduating from San Juan High School in Citrus Heights, Mary pursued a career in nursing, earning her degree from Mary’s Help College of Nursing in San Francisco. For over four decades, she devoted her life to the nursing profession, a calling she embraced with compassion and dedication. Mary was known for her gentle spirit and caring heart, qualities that touched the lives of countless patients. Mary's home was always a place of warmth and welcome, where everyone felt the embrace of her generosity and love. Her passion for gardening was evident in the vibrant flowers that adorned her backyard, each bloom a testament to her nurturing nature. Celebrations with family and friends were marked by her famous cakes, with Strawberry Angel Food and German Chocolate cakes being her specialties. In her retirement, Mary and James enjoyed traveling, exploring the beauty of National Parks through RV trips, and embarking on cruises that added to their tapestry of cherished memories. Mary is survived by her beloved husband James, her sisters Dolores Steed and Nita Dexter, and her extensive family who will dearly miss her presence but carry forward her legacy of love and kindness. The family extends their heartfelt gratitude to the staff at Kaiser Hospital for their compassionate care during her final days. In lieu of flowers, donations in Mary's memory can be made to Easterseals Northern California, an organization close to her heart, located in Walnut Creek, CA.

Tributes

Mary Ella Maher

April 1, 1934 - July 17, 2026