Mary Ann Kocher

Mary A. Kocher, the daughter of the late Emma and James Vlahos, entered the gates of heaven on Sunday, October 19, 2025, surrounded by her loving family.

She was the beloved wife of the late Eldred “Jerry” L. Kocher, with whom she shared 32 years of marriage at the time of his passing in 2002.

Mary was a hard-working, loving and caring person whose great joy came from the presence of all who visited her home, especially when her three sons came to visit at the same time.

Famous for her pasta sauce with beef tips and rigatonis, her back door was always open with the welcome mat proudly displayed for all to see. You better come prepared to eat, no excuses, and eat you will.

Mary was always willing to help those in need regardless of her personal situation. The old expression “give you the shirt off her back” was demonstrated countless times throughout her life.

Her last words: “I am prepared to die. I lived a good, long life. It didn’t always go the way I thought it would. I made the best of the life God gave me.” Mary’s faith in the Lord was strong, and she prayed every day. She was always putting people on her prayer chain, trusting the Lord would hear her request to lighten the load of her loved ones.

Mrs. Kocher is survived by her children, James “Bink” M. Cendoma (Maggie Savino) of Corning, NY, Greg G. Cendoma (Cindy) of Williamsport, and David A. Cendoma of Williamsport; step-children, Audrey L. Kocher and Linda E. Kocher; five grandchildren; eight great grandchildren; as well as many nieces and nephews.

In addition to her husband and parents, she was proceeded in death by her siblings, Kay Shaffer, Martha Vlahos, and Jim Vlahos; and stepson, Daniel L. Kocher.

Services honoring the life of Mary will be held on Friday, November 7, 2025 at 10 am with her Mass of Christian Burial at St. Joseph the Worker Church, 702 W. 4th St., Williamsport.

Interment to follow in Wildwood Cemetery, Williamsport.

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