Mary Rogers: Retired Pawling Music Teacher

From the Beecher Funeral Home

Mary Rogers of Brewster, NY passed away on February 24 after a brief illness.

She is survived by her husband of 63 years, Raymond Rogers; her daughters Kelly Pedersen, Juliette Rogers and Noelle Wyble; seven grandchildren and five great-grandchildren. She is deeply loved by her family and the many, many friends she has made during her lifetime.

Mary traveled extensively with her husband, enjoyed playing tennis and quilting. She especially loved every holiday visit and celebrations with her family.

Mary was born April 9, 1934 in Pawhuska, OK to Harry Garfield and Louella (Parrot) Benson. In 1956, she graduated from Northwestern University as a Music major, specializing in piano. Her music career began at Green Chimneys School in 1967, followed by teaching general music and chorus at Pawling, NY elementary school for 27 years. After playing the pipe organ as a substitute in several area churches, she became the organist and the Senior and Junior choir director at the First United Methodist Church on Main St, Brewster. She added a hand-bell choir to further enhance Sunday worship with music. After retiring from her teaching position at Pawling Elementary, Mary became a private-lesson piano teacher in her home studio.

Her interests and activities were extensive. She was a long-time member of the Putnam Chorale, serving on its Board, as well as serving on the Board of the Landmarks Preservation Society in Brewster. Her efforts on behalf of the Old Southeast Church included writing grant proposals and organizing an annual summer music concert series. The funds she raised resulted in the restoration of this historical building located on Route 22, Brewster, NY.

A funeral service will be held on Saturday, March 2, 2019 at 10:30am at the First United Methodist Church, Main Street, Brewster. Interment will follow at Milltown Rural Cemetery, Brewster, NY.

Visitation will be held on Friday March 1, 2019 from 2-4pm and 6-8pm at Beecher Funeral Home, 1 Putnam Avenue, Brewster, NY.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the First United Methodist Church on Main St, Brewster, in order to maintain this National Historical Landmark.