Mary Louise Herbert Heron

HERON  Mary Louise Herbert Heron April 5, 1941 – November 10, 2024 Mary Louise Herbert Heron, beloved mother, grandmother, and friend, passed away on November 10, 2024. She was born on April 5, 1941, in the Mayfair section of Philadelphia to Jacob Spencer “Spence” and Emma Herbert (née Schindler). Mary was the loving mother of Christina Coretta Blake (née Heron) and Mary Cara Heron, and the proud grandmother of Carey L. Thomas III and Gregory T. Blake. She is also survived by many cousins, nieces, nephews, great-nieces, and great-nephews, all of whom were deeply cherished by her. Mary led a life rich in accomplishments and meaningful connections. She graduated from Saint Hubert’s Catholic High School for Girls in 1959 and went on to earn a Bachelor of Arts in Corporate Communications with a minor in Video Production from Arcadia University in 1996. Mary had a long and successful career, first as a Collection Representative at Bell of PA from 1981 to 1986, then as a Sales Consultant in Operations at Verizon from 1986 to 2001. Her work ethic and dedication to her profession were qualities she carried with her in every aspect of life. Throughout her life, Mary embraced a wide range of interests. She had a deep appreciation for politics, travel, and the arts, particularly writing, photography, and dance. She was an avid poet, attending the monthly "Pizza and Poetry" sessions in Camden, NJ, and her Haiku were a cherished part of her creative expression. Mary also volunteered with the Children's Liturgy at Sacred Heart Parish and enjoyed socializing with friends and neighbors at her Elkins Park, PA home, where she hosted numerous gatherings and holiday parties. Mary was especially fond of the shore, and for many years, her vacation property in North Wildwood, NJ was a place of joy and connection with friends and neighbors. She loved watching sunrises and sunsets at the Mauna Loa, creating lasting memories with those she held dear. A lifelong learner and engaged community member, Mary was involved in various organizations, including serving as a Judge of Elections for Cheltenham Township from 1998 to 2010, a Board member of the Nick Virgilio Haiku Association, and a member of the Heritage Dance Association and the Philadelphia Independent Film & Video Association. Her travels took her to many places both in the U.S. and abroad, including Canada, Costa Rica, Ireland, Germany, and Scotland, enriching her life and deepening her love of culture and new experiences. Whether through her work in the community, her support of local churches like Sacred Heart Parish in Camden and St. Malachy’s Church in Philadelphia, or simply through her countless friendships, Mary’s impact was felt far and wide. Her life was a beautiful tapestry of experiences, relationships, and personal growth, and she will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing her. Relatives and friends are invited to Mary’s viewing on Saturday, November 16, 2024, beginning at 9:30 AM at Sacred Heart Parish, 1739 Ferry Ave, Camden, NJ 08104. Her Funeral Mass will follow at 11:00 AM. Interment will be private. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations to Sacred Heart Parish in Mary’s memory, either by mail or through the parish website:https://sacredheartofcamden.com/giving