Mary was born on February 8, 1950, in Westwood, NJ, to James and Isabelle Mullin. Mary received an undergraduate college degree in education from Trenton State College (now The College of New Jersey) and a Master's degree in library science from Glassboro State College (now Rowan College). Mary began her professional career as an elementary school teacher and librarian in Chesterfield, NJ and served as a librarian at Middlesex County Community College (NJ) for seven years. After moving to New Hartford, NY, in 2001, Mary was employed by Herkimer County Community College as a reference librarian for ten years.

Mary left her career for a ten year period to dedicate her life to raising two sons, Nikolas and Casey. Mary was always a high energy person who loved the outdoors. She thrived on kayaking, bicycling, cross-country skiing, and swimming. She committed her life to helping others in every possible way. Loved by all who knew her, Mary’s beaming smile and joyful laugh are greatly missed.