Mary was warm, compassionate, and endlessly welcoming. She had a gift for connecting with people almost instantly. A true social butterfly, Mary never met a stranger, she could strike up a conversation with anyone. She showed up for the people she loved without hesitation. Family was everything to Mary.
In her younger years, Mary devoted sixteen years of her life as a Catholic nun. Life took a turn and Mary followed a different path, calling her to the love of her life, the late Bill. Fittingly, Bill had once walked a similar path, having formerly been an ordained Catholic priest who felt called to pursue marriage and family which ultimately led him to Mary. After Bill’s passing, Mary faced the challenge of becoming a widow, courageously raising their children on her own. She dedicated over three decades to Gonzaga College High School, where she became much more than an educator. She was a mentor and a source of encouragement to countless students. Even after retiring from the classroom, she couldn’t imagine stepping away from teaching entirely, continuing as a tutor until she fully retired. Her love of learning never faded, and she was always ready to help, especially when her granddaughter needed guidance with a difficult math problem.
In her free time, Mary’s curious mind was always active. She found joy in solving math problems simply for fun, getting lost in a good book, and challenging herself with puzzles. Nothing, however, brought Mary greater joy than being “Nanny” to her beloved grandchildren, Liam and Finley.
Mary is predeceased by her husband Bill, and her siblings Jimmy (Mickey) Algeo, Dan (Bonnie) Algeo, and Tom (Pat) Freburger.
She is survived by her children Will Freburger and Sarah (Robert) Salaga, her grandchildren Finley and Liam, her siblings Sally (the late Bobby) Filliben, Michael (Susan) Algeo, and Eileen, and her in-law Barbara Salaga, along with many extended family members and cherished friends.
Come celebrate 84 great years on Tuesday, July 14th, at St. Charles Borromeo Parish in Cinnaminson where a Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 11am. A luncheon will be held following the mass at the Riverton County Club. In lieu of flowers donations may be made to St. Judes or to Samaritan Hospice.
9 Comments
Mary was a warm and wonderful person. A perfect bonus mom for me from the time she moved in next door. I always felt her love as if I was a bonus son for her as well. I was so very lucky to have known her. All my love to all of her family.
Andrew Thornes
Sorry for your loss. I know everyone will miss her, especially Liam.
I have only met Mary once.
She was very warm and welcoming.
Her daughter Sarah, is married to my nephew, Rob Salaga.
Aunt Mary, thank you for being such an amazing role model, a force for good in the world, and a wonderful human being who freely gave warmth, laughter, grace, & respect. You gave our family an example of love, and I will forever cherish & long remember the joyful memories that I will hold deep in my heart. 💚☘️
I had the pleasure, privilege, of living across from Mary when our children were young. She welcomed us to the neighborhood and to her house; which despite what we see on TV, is not very common in big cities. Mary was one of the kindest persons I have ever met. I remember her as a dedicated parent, teacher and friend. I was going to say, may she rest in peacer, but I know that she will be too busy being a guardian angel to her loved ones.
Mary was one of the kindest souls you could ever meet. She had a warmth about her that made everyone feel welcome. Her life was so interesting, and it was always fun to hear her share pieces of it.
She especially loved talking about her days as a teacher and the many students whose lives she touched. It was clear how much she cared for them.
I know she will be deeply missed, but her kindness and spirit will stay with all who loved her.
Our deepest condolences to the family from the Larkin family. We just lost Susan a week before. We are sorry for your loss. Sending comfort and love to all as Mary was a fine person.
Mary was a mentor to me when I first arrived at Gonzaga College High School many years ago. She showed me depth of warmth and kindness that is hard to match. Besides being an outstanding Math teacher, she was an excellent counselor. No one was easier to confide in. I remember her fondly. R.I. P.
Will, please accept my sincerest condolences on the passing of your Mom. I fondly remember her and her patience and compassion for me and all students at Gonzaga. May she rest in peace, and may your family know our Lord’s compassionate love during this time of grief.
Your dedication to the students of Gonzaga College High School was selfless. Thank you for the years of being a colleague.