HARFORD – Mary E. Doss 04/22/43 – 06/07/2025
It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Mary Doss, an outstanding member of our community, who passed away peacefully at the age of 82. Mary was a devoted wife, loving mother, cherished grandmother and great-grandmother, and a tireless advocate for the well-being of others.
Mary was a nurse practitioner and physician’s assistant working at Cortland Memorial Hospital, Cortland Urology medical office and Planned Parenthood. She wanted it known that she had fun working with so many wonderful people. She dedicated much of her life to volunteer service, most notably with the American Red Cross and the Ithaca Breast Cancer Alliance. Mary was on the board for the Brewster House and a member of the Cortland County Retired Nurses. Her decades of unwavering commitment and compassion touched countless lives and served as an inspiration to all who knew her whether she was teaching lifesaving skills, comforting families in times of crisis, or supporting women through their breast cancer journeys. Mary was a member of Al-Anon for 48 years where she was embraced by a loving community.
A woman of quiet strength and boundless empathy, Mary balanced her community work with deep devotion to her family. For 61 years she was a steadfast partner to her husband, Jim Doss. A nurturing mother to her four daughters, Maureen Reynolds, Patti Ayres, Kelly Doss and Jennifer Fairbanks (deceased) and a guiding light to her five grandchildren and five great grandchildren. She leaves behind her surviving siblings; Kathy, Sarah and Theresa and was predeceased by Phillip, Quinton, Peggy and Diane. Mary cherished her long-time friendship with Jeannette Dippo. She wished to share gratitude for the excellent care provided by the healthcare professionals at the Renzi Center and Guthrie Medical Center.
Mary’s legacy is one of kindness, resilience, and selfless service. She leaves behind a family who adored her and a community made better by her presence. The pearly gates will be open and waiting to receive Mary. She wanted us to remember her nursing school motto, “To those who are brave and strong, nothing is too hard.”
A memorial service celebrating Mary’s life will be held at 5 pm on Friday, June 13th at Perkins Funeral Home with a time of visitation from 3-5 pm prior to the service. The celebration will continue with a meal at the Dryden Veteran’s Memorial Home following the service. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in her memory to the American Red Cross or the Ithaca Breast Cancer Alliance.
She will be dearly missed but forever remembered.
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