Mary E. Millaway slipped into eternity and into the arms of Jesus, welcomed by all of her loved ones on January 11, 2025. She was hospitalized in January 2021 with Covid 19 and was placed on a ventilator. She defied many odds by being weaned off the ventilator, after nine months of pure agony. Many told her that it could not be done, but her sheer will and God's grace proved everyone wrong. Her determination to keep pushing on through the pain and difficulties of her illnesses was an absolute inspiration to all who knew her. She lived life on her terms and departed the same way. The "extra" time we had with her was truly a gift from God.

Born and raised in the Kensington area of Philadelphia to her predeceased parents (Mary E. Deininger and Raymond F. Millaway), Mary was the dear sister of Joseph, Marie (Gumpper), Patricia (Robinson), Frances (Garrity), Josephine (Haruch), Charlotte (Hernandez-Wildonger) and Raymond. She attended Most Precious Blood, Saint Michael's and Saint Boniface. She graduated from Saint Michael's Business School and also completed credits for her associate's degree in social work. She was very proud of the work she did in the District Attorney's office of Philadelphia with Domestic Abuse victims. This is where she gained her excellent skills of listening and counseling, which she would utilize for the rest of her life.

Mary was the beloved wife of the late Henry Smolarski. She was also a devoted mother to Brian, Jennifer, and Rebecca and a proud stepmom to Ronald, Henry, Alberta, Liz, Mark, Renee', Bernadette, Lenora and Joseph. She was called "Mom Mom Mary" by a great deal of people and had many special relationships with her grandchildren, especially the late Amanda, Jessica (Josh), Kaitlyn (Stefan), Alexis and Faith (Alex). She was loved by many adoring nieces and nephews who all knew her in various capacities. Mary shared a different side of herself with everyone she knew. This is what made her so special and loved by so many.

As we all know, Mary was a very particular person and had strong opinions. This is a blessing in a time like this because we do not have to wonder how to honor her final wishes. She did not want a somber event, but rather a celebration of who she was to each of us. So, anyone who has been touched by Mary is welcomed to join us Saturday January 25th at Philadelphia Fire Officers Union Hall located at 2500 Lefevre Street, Philadelphia PA 19137 at 12pm. Mary's favorite parties were the ones where people came together and did what it took to make a great time. In honor of that sentiment, we are making this a potluck affair. If you feel so inclined, please make or bring a dish to share, whether it be something Mary loved to eat, or just something you like to make, and sign up at Meal Train.

Please arrive between 12-1 pm and we will begin at 1pm. The family is looking forward to seeing everyone and celebrating the life of Mary Millaway.