Mary was born in Worcester, MA to one of the founders of Table Talk Pies. After graduating from The Bancroft School, she briefly attended Wheaton College, but at the age of 50, she completed her undergraduate degree at Anna Maria College. She later went on to earn a master's degree in education from Assumption College.

While actively participating in her church's parish council and choir, Mary concentrated on raising her three children in the city she adored. Mary also adored the arts. She briefly worked as a teacher in the Worcester Public Schools before joining the Worcester Art Museum as a docent. She spent many years expressing to museum visitors her intense appreciation of the arts and culture. She really enjoyed giving public school children in Worcester guided tours of the city.

Mary contributed significantly to the development and achievement of Table Talk Pies as well. She was able to assist the three generations of the company's leadership as a daughter, wife, and mother. This role eventually led to her becoming head of the company, and she instrumental in Table Talk's decision to keep its headquarters in Worcester.