Mary E. (Skala) Dickson

Mary E. (Skala) Dickson, 65, of East Longmeadow, died early Saturday evening, May 13, 2023 in the comfort of her home with her loving family by her side. She was born and educated in Springfield, a daughter of the late Joseph and Mary (Shea) Skala and was a graduate of Cathedral High School Class of 1975. Mary continued her education attending Fitchburg State and Westfield State College receiving her bachelors in education Class of 1979.

She began a long and lengthy relationship of over thirty years with the City of Springfield School Department retiring from the Mary O. Pottenger Elementary School located in East Springfield in 2016. During those years, she was instrumental in providing her students with the necessary skills to receive a good education, demonstrate with loving care, and inspiring all of the children who were privileged attending her classroom.

Mary was a communicant of St. Patrick’s Church in Springfield. Family was primarily her most precious treasure. Some of Mary’s favorite pastimes included traveling with her family and friends, enjoying the tranquility of the ocean and beaches at Cape Cod, and enjoying a good read.

She is survived by her best friend and devoted husband of 42 years, Daniel D. Dickson of East Longmeadow; her two loving sons, Daniel J. Dickson and his partner Jamie Tabb of Wilbraham, and John M. Dickson and his wife Melanie of East Longmeadow; her five cherished grandchildren, Elizabeth, Catherine, John, Joseph and Hope;  her sisters-in-law and brothers-in-law, John Dickson and his wife Mary Jean of East Longmeadow, Deborah Payne and her husband David of Agawam, Martha Cardaropoli and her husband Joseph of Jupiter, FL, and Donna Lowe and her husband Jay of Stoneham, MA; as well as many nieces, nephews and cousins.

Relatives and friends may call on Thursday, May 18th from 4-7 PM at the Byron Keenan Funeral Home & Cremation Tribute Center, 1858 Allen Street, in Springfield. A Liturgy of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Friday, May 19th meeting directly at 11:00 AM at St. Patrick’s Church, 1900 Allen Street, with Rites of Committal to follow at Gate of Heaven Cemetery, 421 Tinkham Road, both in Springfield.

Contributions in Mary’s name may be directed to Massachusetts Eye & Ear, 243 Charles St., Boston, MA 02114 or the Shriners Hospital for Children, 516 Carew St., Springfield, MA 01104.