Mary C. Bartlett

DELMAR - Mary Catherine (Travis) Bartlett, born September 21, 1929 to the late Adelbert and Barbara (Gansle) Travis, passed away peacefully at St. Peter’s Hospice on June 7, 2024.  Mary was the devoted wife to Arthur Bartlett for 66 years, prior to his passing on September 6, 2020.

Mary was a proud graduate of Philip Schuyler High School, Class of 1948, and enjoyed many class reunions over the years.  Mary started her career with Aetna Insurance Company, leaving to raise her children.  She returned to the workforce part time with Staff Builders at The State Bank of Albany and was eventually hired full time by The State Bank of Albany.  In 1979, Mary took a full time permanent position with the NYS Department of Health from where she eventually retired in March of 1992, following the birth of her first grandchild.  Throughout her career she made many lifelong friends.

Mary, a native of Albany’s South End, lived on Mount Hope Drive for 52 years before moving to Beltrone Living Center in Colonie.  While there, Mary enjoyed participating in activities, reconnecting with acquaintances from her past, and forming new friendships.  A year after her husband’s passing, Mary relocated to Loudonville Assisted Living and in January transitioned to a private care residence.

Mary was happiest when working in her garden, walking with her grandchildren, socializing with family, or relaxing with a magazine or book.  Despite her many years of work, Mary considered herself a housewife and took great pride in running her household.  The definition of a loving grandma, Mary filled her home with endless snacks for her three grandchildren and never missed an opportunity to support them at their various activities and school events.  Ever the early riser, brimming with vim, vigor, and vitality for the day ahead, Mary could always be found soundly asleep in her recliner after 3pm snack time.

Mary enjoyed many adventures and date nights with her brother Frank and his wife Joan, as well as bus trips with her sister Ruth and her husband Tony.  She also enjoyed volunteering at Bethany Reformed Church dinners and plant sales.  Mary’s only regret in life was never learning how to drive, but that didn’t stop her from excelling at backseat driving.

Mary never met a stranger and would gladly strike up a conversation with anyone she met.  She lived her life in consistent service to her friends, family, and community, her warm smiles, easy laughs, and generous nature brought light to many; this spirit will be carried on in the hearts and deeds of those who knew her.

Mary is survived by her daughter Patricia Sheffer and son Thomas (Magie) Bartlett and by her grandchildren Lauren Sheffer, Kelly and Michael Bartlett.  She is also survived by her brothers William and Frank Travis, her sister-in-law Ruth Travis, and brother-in-law Joseph R. Bartlett Sr.  She also leaves behind many dear nieces, nephews, great nieces, great nephews, great-grandnieces, and great-grandnephews.  Mary was predeceased by her sister Ruth Occhialino, brother John Travis, her sister-in-laws Joan and Mary Travis, and her brother-in-law Anthony Occhialino.  Mary was buried beside her husband at Our Lady Help of Christian Cemetery at a private graveside service.

Donations in Mary’s name may be made to the Alzheimer’s Association, 225 Michigan Ave. Floor 17, Chicago, IL 60601.