Mary Lou Jurs passed away at the age of 91 on September 19, 2020. She was born in Mamaroneck, N.Y., the youngest of five children of Michael and Mary Coyle-Rose.

 

She raised her family in Rye, N.Y. where she lived for 70 years. She was a member of the Rye Senior Citizens, St. Monica’s Mothers Club, Girl Scouts, and Mamaroneck Knights of Columbus Columbiettes. She was quick to take on other volunteer opportunities as time allowed.

 

In addition to raising her family, throwing the best parties, and leading an active life, Mary Lou Jurs possessed drive and ambition. Growing up, she held a number of jobs, including selling decorative Christmas logs on the Post Road in Rye Neck for her industrious brother Jack and working at the soda counter at Grants in New Rochelle. She modeled for Bonwit Teller, held sales positions, and, for 31 years, worked at Hospital Baby Portraits in Port Chester, N.Y. She retired at the age of 78.

 

“Her legacy of lessons is large,” said her family. “Among them were: ‘Always strive to do more. Go the distance. Be brave. Ask questions, and never take no for an answer.’”

 

She is survived by her two daughters, Deborah and Patricia of Stamford, Conn. She was predeceased by her loving and wonderful husband George Jurs, who passed away in 1983; her brothers, Michael, Daniel, and Jack, and her sister, Betty Ferris, all of Rye.

 

A Mass of Christian Burial was held September 23 at Church of the Resurrection.

 

Donations in Mary Lou Jurs’ name may be made to the Carl and Dorothy Bennett Cancer Center at Stamford Hospital.