Mary Margaret Keros passed away on December 18, 2023, at the age of 99, a month before her 100th birthday, in Rutland, Vermont. She was born on January 22, 1924, in Poughkeepsie, New York, to Joel and Bess (Pinchin) Blaise (formerly Bourgeois).

Mary was a devoted wife, mother, grandmother and great grandmother. Together with her late husband, Mitchell, the "love of her life" as she described him, they built their cherished home in Salisbury, Vermont, where they lived happily for many years. Mary was a one-time dealer in antiques and estate jewelry, and her passion for antiquing led her to discover many unique treasures. She was also accomplished at jewelry making, quilting, baking and creating culinary treats for family and friends.

Mary had a welcoming, engaging spirit which drew people in by her warmth and unique enthusiasm for life. She especially cherished her early memories of growing up in New York. It was there she met Mitchell, who was serving in the US Coast Guard stationed in Brooklyn. He was later to proudly serve on a Destroyer Escort, the USS Pettit, in the North Atlantic during World War II. Their love story began and their enduring bond remained strong throughout their lives. Theirs remains to this day a timeless story of the Greatest Generation and the importance of personal sacrifice, patriotism and the bonds of friendship and family.

Since her early childhood, Mary had a deep love and appreciation for all animals. She had a strong affection for her Persians and the rescues she cared for in her later years. She found solace in their companionship and showered them with affection and the best care possible. She was a strong supporter of organizations involved with animal advocacy.

Mary is survived by her daughter, Gail Aroeste (Joel) of Albany, New York, granddaughter Rachel (Matthew Sweer), grandson Adam Aroeste (Anna), great-granddaughter Elisabeth Sweer, great-grandson Alexander Sweer, great-grandson Asher Aroeste, nephew Thomas Merrifield, and several cousins. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her sister Prudence Wimett and brother Joseph Blaise.

Mary's long life and legacy will be privately celebrated and remembered by her family at a future time. The family is grateful to Bayada Hospice for their compassionate care and support in recent weeks. They would value any remembrances and condolences be sent to sandersonfuneralservice.com