Essex - Mary Jane Muise, 84, a lifelong resident of Essex, passed away peacefully in her home surrounded by family on Thursday, November 13, 2025.

Mary was born in Gloucester, at home, during WWII. She was known for her strength, her kindness, and the easy warmth that made anyone feel comfortable in her presence. She had a gift for conversation — whether sharing a story, offering wisdom, or simply listening with genuine care. For many years, Mary worked at Puna's, the well-known general store in Essex, where her friendly spirit and familiar smile became a cherished part of the community. She also served as the bookkeeper for Elwell Oil Company, a family business.

Mary was married to the love of her life, Gerald "Gerry" Clark Muise, for 65 years, building a life filled with devotion, laughter, and deep family roots.

Mary is survived by a family spanning multiple generations: four of her five children, Glenn Muise; Joan Perrigo and her partner, Jerry Markham; Jean Toby and her husband, Bruce Toby; and Colleen Tofuri and her husband, Russell Hemeon. She also leaves behind her 12 beloved grandchildren and 9 great-grandchildren, all of whom brought her immense joy.

She is additionally survived by her siblings, Geraldine Giles, Eleanor Cole, Virginia Sulton, Brenda Harrell, and Paul Burnham. Mary was predeceased by her husband, Gerald "Gerry" Clark Muise; her oldest daughter, Crystal Lane; her son-in-law Robert Perrigo; and her brothers, Wayne, James, Newell, and Norman Burnham.

In her final years, Mary was lovingly cared for by her granddaughters, Jayne Barrett and Lynsey Lane.

Mary will be remembered for her unwavering love for her family, her quiet strength, and the gentle, welcoming presence that made every person she met feel at home. Her legacy lives on in the generations she nurtured, the community she touched, and the countless lives brightened by her kindness.

Family and friends are invited to attend Mary's visitation on Wednesday, November 19, 2025, from 4 to 7 p.m. in the Greely Funeral Home, 212 Washington Street, Gloucester. There will also be a graveside burial service on Thursday, November 20, 2025, at 11:30 a.m. at Spring Street Cemetery in Essex.

For online condolences, please visit www.greelyfuneralhome.com.