Mary C. Ciappa, 82, of Oswego passed away Thursday morning, Aug. 1, 2019, in the Oswego Hospital surrounded by her loving family.

She was born in Oswego and was the daughter of the late Thomas and Helen Sanford Connolly.

Mrs. Ciappa was a longtime teacher in the Oswego City School District.

A graduate of Oswego High School, she received her Bachelor's Degree from Lemoyne College, her Master's Degree from Oswego State University and a Special Education Degree from Syracuse University. She earned a Certificate of Advance Studies in School Counseling from SUNY Oswego.

Her teaching career spanned 35 years, from Red Creek to Alice E. Mackin to Kingsford Park School. She was widely recognized for her contribution to local special education.

Mary served numerous local organizations, including as a member or chair of the Salvation Army Board, Safe Haven Holocaust Refugee Shelter Museum Board, city Planning, Library, Architectural Review boards and the County Board of Mental Health, among many others.

Politically active and involved with the local Democratic Party, she served on the Oswego Common Council and in 2003 was the party's nominee for mayor.

An avid reader, quilter, knitter and artist, she was always creatively active.

Mary is survived by her children, Conlee (John) Shannon and Thomas (Mary) Ciappa, both of Oswego, and her sister Joanne Brace of Oswego.

Funeral services will be 10 a.m. Tuesday from Dain-Cullinan Funeral Home and at 11 a.m. in St. Joseph's Church.

Burial will be in St. Paul's Cemetery.

Calling hours will be held from 4-7 p.m. Monday at the funeral home, 112 E. Second St., Oswego.