Mary Ann Roth Vaccaro

Mary Ann (Roth) Vaccaro, 95, passed away peacefully on August 31, 2024 in Glendale, Arizona. She was born on September 26, 1928 in La Crosse, Wisconsin to Vincent and Clare (Maier) Roth. Her brother, Fr. James Roth, M.M., and sister, Bernice Weis (Gerry), preceded her in death. She was also preceded in death by her husband of 72 years, Sam Vaccaro who died on July 17, 2024. Mary is survived by her children, Guy, (Rita), Janet (Milt), Tom (Debbie), and Jim (Lena), and by her grandchildren, Jason (Genevieve), Jennifer (Chris), Christopher (Courtney), Madeline, Crystal (Ellen), and Christian, and by her great-grandchildren, Matthew, Joshua, Jacob, Jackson, Mila, and Cayden. Mary was a nurse by training and profession and served in both hospitals and a public high school. She loved to play bridge and golf, and to take vacations with her family. She always thought of others before herself. She tirelessly cared for the needs of her husband and children by performing the countless tasks required of a mother and by providing a well-kept home. She was an outstanding cook and her children remember coming home from school to the aroma of fresh baked bread and sweets, every Monday. And who could forget that Monday night was also spaghetti night? She never needed to be the center of attention. Having family around her brought all the joy she needed. She was outgoing and volunteered outside the home in numerous ways including leading newcomers’ clubs, volunteering for free blood pressure clinics, teaching underprivileged children, and sorting groceries at local food pantries. She was an inspiring example of kindness to all whom she met no matter how challenging others might find them. She never spoke ill of anyone and her children cannot recall her ever raising her voice. She was a devoted Catholic and found strength in her faith and regular attendance at Mass. Her peaceful, abiding presence will be missed by all who knew her, especially her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. The continuing refrain throughout her life was, be kind to all those you meet. By the way she lived her life and treated others, she taught all of her children how much God loves us. A joint funeral Mass for Mary and Sam was held at St. Elizabeth Seton Catholic Parish in Sun City, Arizona.