HAVERHILL — Mary J. (Azzarito) Kosmes passed from this life on January 23, 2011, with her beloved family by her side.
She was born in Haverhill on March 5, 1931 to Frank and Mary (Iuele) Azzarito. She attended Haverhill Public Schools, received her Bachelor's Degree from Regis College, attained her Master's Degree from the University of New Hampshire and did additional Post Graduate work at Lesley University. Mary was a life-long educator in the Haverhill Public Schools, who began her teaching career at the former Winter Street School, where she served as both First Grade teacher and Assistant Principal.
In 1970, she transferred to the Tilton School where she remained as the Assistant Principal of that building until her retirement in 1990. Mary not only shaped the lives of countless students during her 38 years as an educator, but also served as a role model and mentor for the many teachers and administrators with whom she collaborated over the years. After her retirement, Mary spent 17 years working at the Haverhill Teachers and Municipal Credit Union, where she continued to serve as a member of the Board of Directors.
She was predeceased by her beloved husband Theophilos "Phil" Kosmes, with whom she shared 55 years of marriage. She leaves her loving and devoted daughters and their spouses, Kara and Donald Conlin, and Stephanie and David Collins, and her adored granddaughter, Shelby Mariah Collins, who will miss her "YiaYia" terribly. She also leaves her brother and sisters in law, James and Ann Azzarito, and Cecelia Azzarito, as well as many nieces, nephews, friends and a host of extended family members, including members of the Collins and Graham families, the Juknavorian, Selvaggio, McGowan and Bevilacqua families, and Janice Conlin Dellovo. She was predeceased by her brother Joseph Azzarito and her sister M. Elizabeth "Debbie" Anzaldi.
Mary was a teacher, mentor and friend to many, and an exceptional woman who treasured her family and close friends. There was no question however, that Phil was the absolute love of her life. Together, Mary and Phil shared a bond of love and devotion for over a half a century. Kara and Stephanie are eternally grateful to have had so many years with such wonderful parents. Mom and dad...we love you more.
ARRANGEMENTS: Relatives and friends are respectfully invited to attend her Funeral on Thursday, Jan. 26th at 10:00 from the H.L. Farmer & Sons Funeral Home, 106 Summer St., Haverhill, followed by a Funeral Service at 11:00 at the Holy Apostles Sts. Peter & Paul Greek Orthodox Church, 154 Winter St. Haverhill. Burial will follow in the Linwood Cemetery, Haverhill. Calling hours at the Funeral Home will be Wednesday, Jan. 25th from 4-7 pm. Contributions in her memory may be made to the Holy Apostles Church, 154-156 Winter St. Haverhill, MA, 01830. Condolences to her family may be made at www.farmerfuneralhomes.com.
