Mary M (Hines) Hodgdon

Mary M. (Hines) Hodgdon, 97, of Newton, passed away peacefully at her home on Thursday, April 3, 2025, surrounded by her loving family. Born on January 23, 1928, Mary dedicated her life to nurturing the hearts and minds of those around her, particularly through her steadfast devotion as a wife, mother, grandmother, and esteemed educator.

A woman of unwavering faith, Mary embodied kindness, compassion, and dedication. She cherished not only her own seven children but embraced all children, passionately guiding young learners during her 30 years as an elementary school teacher. Her legacy lives in the countless students whose lives she enriched.

Mary treasured New England sports, enthusiastically following the Patriots, Bruins, and Red Sox through seasons both triumphant and challenging.

A lover of the natural world, she found joy and renewal in the ocean, the stars, and the beaches of Cape Cod, where she created many lasting memories with her family.

Her husband, Robert L. Hodgdon, who predeceased her in 2000, was the great love of her life. Together they built a family rooted in love.

She is survived by her children, Anne M. Vachon, Irene M. Butler (late George), Gail E. Hodgdon (Mark Lanciani), Stephen F. Hodgdon, Mary M. Hodgdon-Manning (Glenn Manning), Raymond F. Hodgdon (Cindy), who carry forward her legacy of warmth and generosity. Mary was a cherished grandmother to many grandchildren. She was adored by numerous great-grandchildren, and many beloved nieces and nephews whose lives will forever reflect her boundless love. She also leaves her beloved sister, Jeannette (Hines) Cloherty.

Mary was also the mother of the late Robert M. Hodgdon (Wendy), a daughter of the late Francis Russell and Jeannette (Buckley) Hines and sister of the late Francis Hines (Helen), David Hines (Midge), Richard Hines (Cay), and John Hines (Carol).

Mary Hodgdon leaves behind a powerful legacy of love, faith, and devotion that will resonate for generations to come.

Commemorating Mary means acknowledging the extraordinary team of caregivers, who stopped at nothing to provide her care and comfort.

Family and friends will honor and remember Mary’s life by gathering for a Morning Wake in The Joyce Funeral Home, 245 Main Street (Rte. 20), Waltham on Friday, April 11th from 8:30 to 10 a.m. before leaving in procession to Our Lady Help of Christians Church, 573 Washington Street, Newton where her Funeral Mass will be celebrated at 10:30 a.m. Burial will be in Newton Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, donations in Mary’s name may be made to Good Shepherd Community Care Hospice www.gscommunitycare.org.