Decatur – Mary M. Kersman, 70, passed away on May 16, 2023 with her entire family in her home.

She was born September 5, 1952 in Rockville Center, the daughter of Alexander and Mary (O'Connor) Cameron.  She grew up in Islip, NY. She graduated from West Islip High School and received a BA in Child Studies and Special Education from St. Joseph's College in Brooklyn.

Mary moved to South Valley in 1976.  She married Fred Kersman on May 17, 1980 at St. Joseph's Catholic Church in Worcester.  Together they managed their family dairy farm and raised three Eagle Scout sons.

Mary began her teaching career as a substitute teacher in surrounding area schools. She found her true niche and love for teaching others when she began tutoring a local student. Kindness, patience, education, determination, and ingenuity were fostered as a teacher. These talents and skills followed Mary through parenting and her accomplishments in her scouting programs - her true passion.

Mary was a Registrar for the Boy Scouts of America Otschodela Council in Oneonta.  Scouting was ingrained in her daily interactions.  She formed Troop 168.  She was a Cub Scout and Boy Scout Master.  She was active in pack activities.  Mary enjoyed participating with the Boy Scouts in the annual General Clinton Canoe Regatta and the many years at the Henderson Scout Camp.  She was a positive influence in the lives of countless youth. Mary was honored as the recipient of the Boy Scout Silver Beaver Award - this is the highest achievement that an adult scout leader can receive. Mary lived her life by the scout law: trustworthy, loyal, helpful, friendly, courteous, kind, obedient, cheerful, thrifty, brave, clean, and reverent.

Mary was also known for the beautiful quilts she made for many people near and far.  She is remembered by the children at Worcester Central School as she donated monarch butterflies and tadpoles to the science department.

Mary is survived by her husband, Fred Kersman; sons, Alexander and Heather, Frederick and Tiffany and Johnathan Kersman; "Amma" grandchildren, Piper, Griffin and Quinn as well as Greta; her brother, Douglas Cameron; several nieces and nephews; her cousins Margaret and Jeff Valyo, Frankie and Elaine Bame, Richard and Linda Grey, Robert and Geoffrey Froewiss and Lyn Harmon.

She was predeceased by her parents.

Calling hours will be from 2:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. , May 23 , at the Heller & Skinner Funeral Home, 155 Main St. , Worcester. A funeral service will be held at the Heller and Skinner Funeral Home at 4:00 p.m. with Father Ed Golding. Dinner will be served following the service at St. Joseph's Catholic Church - Parish Hall, 201 Main St. , Worcester, NY from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m.

Donations may be sent to, Leatherstocking Council, BSA, 1401 Genesee St., Utica, NY 13501 ; https://donations. scouting.org

Condolences to the family may be made at, www.hellerskinnerfh.com