Mary Catherine Perkins

Mary Catherine Perkins, 91, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, August 5, 2026, at The Highlands in Fitchburg, MA. She was born on May 7, 1935, in Athol, MA, and was the daughter of the late Russell and Ruby (Davidson) Leland.

A long-time resident of Templeton, Mary graduated from Templeton High School in 1953. Shortly thereafter, she received her BSN in Nursing and spent her adult life working as a Registered Nurse until her retirement. Following graduation, she worked for Eliot Hospital in Boston, as well as at Athol Hospital in Athol, MA. She married her husband, Charles (Perk) Perkins, on October 27th, 1957, and had one son, Charlie, in 1964.

Mary loved to crochet, knit, and do ceramics. Many individuals have been lucky to have received a blanket, sweater, or jewelry dish made by Mary. She was quite talented! Mary was also a long-time member of the First Baptist Church in Gardner, MA, singing in the choir.

Mary was predeceased by her husband, Perk, in 2013; her son Charlie, June 28th, 2026, just a month before her passing; her brothers Robert and Clayton, and her sister Pixie. She is survived by her daughter-in-law Sharon Perkins.

A graveside service will be held Saturday, August 15. 2026 at 11:00 am at Pine Grove Cemetery in Templeton, MA. Stone Ladeau Funeral Home has been entrusted with the arrangements. She will be interred between her husband and her son. The family wants to thank The Highlands and Beacon Hospice for their exceptional care and sensitivity in caring for Mary during her final days.