Mary Martha Mark
September 7, 1953 – March 24, 2026

It is with deep sorrow and much love that we mourn the sudden passing of Mary Martha Mark of Moraga, CA on Tuesday, March 24, 2026, at the age of 72. We celebrate her life and cherish our memories of Mary.

    Mary became a single parent at the age of 34 following the death of her husband, Gary. She was a loving mother who always put her sons first. She taught piano, was a savvy investor, a writer, and a prolific painter.

    Mary’s life can best be described in the writings of so many who loved her at her passing:

    “Mary spread her magic across our community. She was a genuinely happy and good person who wanted to spread her joy wherever she went. Everyone knew Mary. She was the unofficial greeter at the shopping center. She collected friends from all walks of life. Her front yard is so whimsical. It’s a direct reflection of her. Full of love and hope. Her spirit is sprinkled throughout our town. Her paintings are hanging in so many of the businesses. She was a unique individual, and I will miss her very much.”

    “I have heard so many stories from her friends about how Mary entered their life at a time when they really needed her. I remember walking with Mary and listening to her talking about her new friends and her excitement. Something so unique about Mary was how big her heart was. She had room for everyone. I was always happy for her friendships and never felt that our friendship was ever less important than any of her other friendships. She was always there, always present.”

    And in Mary’s own writing when asked in 2009 what is the meaning of life:

    “It's learning how to live each day with spontaneity, fun and laughter.  It's learning how to experience loss of loved ones and live with pain and tears.  It's treating people that I meet as if each of them has a broken heart as everyone has one at some time in their life.  It's the excitement that each person that I meet may become a special friend.  It's knowing that some days I might only accomplish one small task or part of one but that's okay.  It's about stretching my limits, embracing my loved ones and appreciating what I have or don't have...  It's about helping others and knowing when to ask for help.  It's all good.”

    Mary will be lovingly remembered by her children: Christopher (Annie) and Jeffrey (Melissa); granddaughter Zoë    ; sister, Phyllis (Mark); brother-in-law, Ernie (Beth) and sister-in-law, Caroline (Geoff); as well as numerous relatives and friends.

    She was predeceased by her loving husband, Gary; brother, Mark; and her parents, Arthur and Luciana Young.

    A celebration of life will be held at a later date. 

    Memorial Donations may be made in Mary Martha Mark’s name to Oscar's Place Adoption Center & Sanctuary, https://www.oscarsplace.org