Mary Kowalyshyn, also known as Sister Stephen Marie, Went to Eternal Life on Monday August 17, 2026. Mary was born on August 23, 1946, to the late Stephen J. Kowalyshyn, Sr., and the late Marie Yvonne Maheu Kowalyshyn.

Mary graduated from Windham High School and continued her education at Eastern State University, where she earned her master’s degree in teaching. In 1964, she answered a calling to religious life and joined the Sisters of Charity. Her faith and dedication to serving others remained an important part of who she was throughout her life.

Mary devoted her life to education and continued teaching throughout her years. She taught in New Hampshire, Minnesota, Baltic, St. Mary’s School in Willimantic, St. James School in Danielson and other communities, touching the lives of countless students and families along the way. Her commitment to teaching was more than a profession—it was a way of serving others and making a difference in their lives.

Mary was one of a large and loving family. She was preceded in death by her parents and Stephen Kowalyshyn Jr, Patricia Burkholder, John Kowalyshyn, William Kowalyshyn, Kenneth Kowalyshyn, James Kowalyshyn Sr. Will be lovingly remembered by her surviving siblings and their families: Doris Kowalyshyn of Franklin: Karen Light of East Hampton; Michael Kowalyshyn of Willimantic; Linda and Alan Harbec of Columbia; Robert Kowalyshyn of Columbia; Donna and Fran Jalbert of Mansfield; Deborah Parrillo of Minnesota; Jane and Peter Galipeau of Florida; and Marie and Eric Young of South Carolina.

Mary will also be lovingly remembered by her many nieces, nephews, grandnieces, grandnephews, cousins, and extended family members, who were blessed by her presence, kindness, faith, and love throughout the years. She held a special place in the hearts of generations of her family, and the memories they shared with her will remain a cherished part of her legacy.

Mary was also a devoted dog lover. She had three beloved dogs during her life: Oreo and Makayla, who have passed away, and her beloved Jingles, who is now living with a cherished friend.

Mary’s life was defined by faith, education, service, and family. As Sister Stephen Marie, she devoted herself to her calling; as Mary, she was a cherished sister whose presence will be deeply missed.

Her family, former students, friends, cousins, and all whose lives she touched will carry her memories with them always.

Mary’s family will receive relatives and friends on Tuesday, August 25, 2026 from 5:00pm to 7:00pm at Potter Funeral Home 456 Jackson St., Willimantic. A gathering at the funeral home at 8:30am will be held prior to her Funeral Mass on Wednesday, August 26, 2026 at 10:00am at St. Joseph Church 99 Jackson St., Willimantic, with burial to follow at St. Joseph Cemetery, Windham.