Mary R. Guercia

Mary R. Guercia, 87, formerly of West Reading, passed away August 21, 2014 in the Berkshire Center.

Her husband, Roland Guercia, died August 5, 1980.

Born August 29, 1926 in Philadelphia, she was a daughter of the late Frank and Erminia (Leone) Petrassi.

She was a 1944 graduate of Hallahan Catholic High School, and a 1948 graduate of Immaculata College.

Mary worked as a chemist for U.S. Research and Development Labs, Philadelphia, for 10 years (1944-1954). Mary was a reading teacher at Sacred Heart School during the time her children attended grade school. She enjoyed interacting with her students and inspiring them to read books. Although she saw her students for a short time during the school day, her students looked forward to their reading class because of Mary's love for reading. After raising her children she went back to work in 1981 for V.F. Factory Outlet, Wyomissing, as a cashier and section supervisor. From 1991 until the 2000's she worked part time for the Outlets in the mail order department.

She was a member of Sacred Heart R.C. Church, West Reading.

Mary's time at Sacred Heart Villa was enjoyed by her immensely, which she gladly told everyone she met. She loved the staff and was very happy to call The Villa her home. When the time came for Mary to be somewhere that supported more care, The Berkshire Center became her home. It was only for a short period of time, but the staff there quickly became her family. She was taken care of with tremendous compassion and grace.

Mary is survived by her four children: Roland M., husband of Maria (Olive) Guercia, New Hyde Park, NY; Jane M., wife of Scott Thomas, Reading; Joanne, wife of William "Bill" Plack, Home, PA; and Mary T., wife of John Naugle, Shillington. Also surviving are her six grandchildren and two great-grandchildren.

She was predeceased by her son, Richard M. Guercia in 1956.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated Tuesday at 10:30 a.m. in Sacred Heart Villa, 51 Seminary Ave, Reading, PA 19605. Burial will be in Holy Cross Cemetery, Yeadon. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to Sacred Heart Villa Memorial Fund at the above address. Edward J. Kuhn Funeral Home, Inc., West Reading is in charge of arrangements. Online condolences may be recorded at www.kuhnfuneralhome.com.