NEW SHARON — Mary Beth Ripa, 65, passed away peacefully at her home in New Sharon on Wednesday, March 14.

She was born Jan. 3, 1953, in Lincoln, Ill., to Gregory and Evelyn Fitzpatrick. She graduated from Illinois State University in 1975 with a degree in elementary education.

Mary began her teaching career in Joliet, Ill., and taught in numerous schools in Missouri, Massachusetts and Maine. In 2011, she earned her master’s degree in education from New England College.

On May 23, 1981, Mary married Philip Ripa, and they had two children together, Danielle Elizabeth and John Philip. Mary was a lifelong teacher and a passionate gardener. One of the bright spots of her last years was sharing her garden with friends and family and teaching her grandchildren about the many perennials she grew. Mary was a member of St. Joseph’s Catholic Church in Farmington.

Mary was preceded in death by her father, Gregory Edward Fitzpatrick; infant brothers, James Gregory and William Paul; and brother, Joseph E. Fitzpatrick.

Mary leaves behind her husband, Philip S. Ripa; children, Danielle (Scott) Ogden, John (Amanda) Ripa; grandchildren, Luna and Finley Ripa, and Rosemary Ogden; as well as sisters, Debra Curry, Joni (Galen) Marten, Peggy (Greg) Morrow; and brother, Louie (Sue) Fitzpatrick; and many nieces and nephews.

The family would like to thank Patty and the care team at Androscoggin Home Care & Hospice for their kindness.

Condolences may be sent for the family at www.adamsmcfarlane.com.

Mary Beth Ripa