Mary E. Pumphrey

Mary Elizabeth (Drury) Pumphrey of Severn, Md., died peacefully at home, with her family by her side, on July 31, 2015. Mary was born April 16, 1934 in Baltimore, Md, daughter of the late Roger and Elizabeth (Schneider) Drury. Her twin brother, Roger, preceded her in death in 2010 and she is survived by one sister, Elsie. Mary was the loving and devoted wife for 57 years of Vernon K. Pumphrey, Sr. He preceded her in death September 2012. Mary and Vernon Sr. lived for 38 years in Millersville, Md where they raised their two sons, Vernon, Jr. (wife Yvonne) of Pasadena, Md and Roger (wife Connie) of Crownsville, Md. Mary enjoyed a close relationship with her sons and daughter-in-laws and taught them the value of kindness and of loving people as they are rather than who you want them to be. Mary and Vernon Sr. later moved to Severn, Md and lived a peaceful and happy life together for many years. Mary treasured both homes and was a wonderful homemaker. Mary was a warm and loving person who had many friends from all walks of life - and she was a loyal friend to them. She loved cooking and baking and, growing up, learned to prepare meals using whatever the family garden produced. Her delicious food and desserts, especially her pound cake, were enjoyed by many people over the years and her cookie jar was always filled with treats. She attributed some of her best recipes to her mother-in-law and, today, Mary's daughters-in-law say the same about the recipes she passed on to them. Mary spent many happy hours tending her flower gardens which were beautiful and weed free. She loved to entertain and her home was often filled with friends and family swapping stories and sharing a slice of her pound cake. We will all deeply miss her presence in our lives. Mary's family would like to thank her faithful friends who were so helpful during her final weeks of life. We are very grateful for their support and kindness during this difficult time. Friends and family may gather at the KIRKLEY-RUDDICK FUNERAL HOME, PA. on Thursday, 3-5 & 7-9pm. Funeral Services will be held Friday, 1PM at the funeral home. Mary Pumphrey will be laid to rest with her husband at the Maryland Veterans Cemetery in Crownsville, Md. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in Mary Pumphrey's memory to Hospice of the Chesapeake 90 Ritchie Highway, Pasadena, Md 21122.