SOUTH GLENS FALLS – Mary E. Nelson, 89, of South Glens Falls, passed away Friday afternoon, April 11, 2025. She died peacefully at the Pines Nursing Home in Glens Falls with her family at her side.
Born on December 4, 1935 in Glens Falls, she was the daughter of the late George and Elizabeth (Smith) Cooper. Mary grew up in South Glens Falls and was a graduate of South Glens Falls High School. She worked for over 30 years as a secretary at the Harrison Avenue Elementary School in South Glens Falls and was an active member of the United Methodist Church there as well, attending services since she was a child.
She was married to the late Eugene L. Nelson for several years until he passed away. She married the late F. William “Bill” Bayard and they also enjoyed many happy years together. Bill passed away on March 4, 2005.
Mary enjoyed camping with her late husband Bill, traveling, singing in the choir, and spending quality time with her grandchildren.
In addition to her parents and both of her husbands, she is predeceased by her brothers, George and Jon Cooper.
She is survived by her children, Debbie Nelson of Glens Falls, and Michael Nelson (Sharon) of Gansevoort; her grandchildren, Matt Nelson (Sara), Jetia Ure (Ashley), Kalitia Gilles (Mike), and Makayla Ure (Brandon); great-grandchildren, Addi and Anna Nelson, Myah Daly, Landon Brooks, and Noah and Lucy Ure; and several nieces and nephews, including Stacey Sullivan (Matthew), and Melissa Kugler (Chris).
Friends may call from 4:00 pm to 7:00 pm on Thursday, April 17, 2025 at the Carleton Funeral Home, 68 Main Street in Hudson Falls.
A committal service will be held on Friday, April 18, 2025 at 11:00 am at the Gerald B.H. Solomon Saratoga National Cemetery, 200 Duell Road in Schuylerville. Friends and family attending should arrive at the cemetery no later than 10:45 am.
The family would like to extend their heartfelt thanks to the staff and nurses at the Pines Nursing Home for the wonderful care and support throughout this difficult time.
Memorial donations may be made in her name to The Pines Nursing Home, 170 Warren St, Glens Falls, NY 12801, or to the charity on your choice.
Mary was a wonderful person. She was kind, helpful and always had a smile while working as the secretary at Harrison Avenue School. May God bless her.
Dear Debbie and Mike,
Please accept my sincere condolences on the passing of your mom. I remember her vividly at Harrison Avenue School and also as a good friend to my mom and dad, Anna and Red Cottrell.