Obituary of Mary Kofira

Mary Kofira, 94, of Taylor passed away peacefully Monday night at home. She was preceded in death by her loving husband, George, who passed away December 10, 1987.

Born March 8, 1923, in the patch section of Taylor, daughter of the late George and Elizabeth Hrindich, she was a lifelong member of St. George's Orthodox Church. She was a founding member of the church's baking group and served as the Altar Society president for 27 years. She created the famous potato pancake recipe that is still used at St. George's Ethnic food festival today. She was especially proud of her lifelong dedication to her church. Also, a longtime member of the Taylor Senior Citizens Club.

Mary was a graduate of Taylor High School and later, Madame Fenwick's Beautician School. She worked as a hairdresser at the Scranton Dry Goods and then operated out of her home until her retirement at the age of 86. Aside from working she took great pride in helping raise her grandchildren throughout their youth.

Mary found great joy in cooking for others. She was exceptionally skilled in the kitchen and oversaw all holidays in the home. She was recognized for her recipes in the Scranton Times on several occasions. She especially enjoyed family vacations in Walt Disney World and South Carolina. She helped organize Atlantic City bus trips for the church and was an avid traveler with her family and friends.

She is survived by her daughter Maribeth and husband David Fife of Old Forge; Son, George A. Kofira of Taylor, granddaughter Sarah, and companion Evan Gretz of Old Forge; grandson David and wife Brittni of Shelton, CT who are expecting Mary's Great-grandson, Jackson David, in March. She is also survived by several nieces and nephews, and will be especially missed by her furry companions Maggie, Boomer and Piper.

Mary was surrounded by many loving and caring people in her life. Her family would like to extend a heartfelt thanks to her following dedicated caregivers throughout the years: Commonwealth Home Health of MTH, especially Bob and Nicole; Meghanne, Heather and Gina of At Home Quality Care; Dr. Dana Montgomery and Nurse Colleen and the Hospice of the Sacred Heart; Sharon Fife and Sandy Pidgdon.   The family would also like to thank Father Mark Leasure and his wife Pani Beverly for their dedicated support.

Family and friends are invited to call on Thursday from 9:00 to 10:00 am at the Semian Funeral Home, 704 Union St. Taylor followed by Mary's funeral service at 10:30 a.m. in St. George's Orthodox Church, 743 S. Keyser Ave. Taylor, celebrated by her pastor, Very Rev. Mark Leasure. Interment with Rite of Committal will follow in the Parish Cemetery. Please visit www.semiancares.com to share memories or leave condolences for Mary's family.