of Pinckney, MI formerly of Long Beach, California, age 75, died Thursday, February 23, 2017 at Everett’s St. Joseph Home for Elder Care. She was born August 9, 1941 in Pensacola, Florida, the daughter of Lt. Com. Alvin L. and Gulielma “Betty” Henley (Bentley) Loughin.
Mary was an only child. Mary was born in Pensacola, Florida, however she mostly resided in Michigan. She resided in southern California for quite some time in the 1960’s. Mary worked on John F. Kennedy’s presidential campaign during this time. Mary deeply admired the Kennedys, especially John F. and Jackie Kennedy. She was also very proficient in piano as a child, winning several awards for her performances. As a child, Mary spent many of her summers on her aunt’s farm, surrounded by nature and many animals including her little long haired black and white dog named; Boydel. Mary also developed a love for horses and horseback riding as well. Mary would often reminisce and go on of her summer visits on her aunt’s farm.
She resided in Pinckney for roughly 35 years. She worked for Saint Joseph’s Mercy Hospital in Ann Arbor for many years as a Nurse Admin and Secretary. Mary was a very humble and kind mother, grandmother and great grandmother. Mary had a very deep love and devotion to her family. She also had a deep love and understanding for animals, often rescuing and taking in many animals to live with her that were either abandoned, unwanted, and in some cases, disabled. Mary also had a deep love for nature, flowers and the warmer seasons of Michigan. Mary’s favorite colors were lavender and purple. She especially enjoyed flowers that exhibited these colors. She spent a lot of time reading outdoors on the back porch in the warmer months.
Mary’s favorite authors were: James Harriot, a British veterinarian and surgeon, who wrote; All Creatures Great and Small, All Things Bright and Beautiful and All Things Wise and Wonderful to name just a few titles. Mary also enjoyed reading books authored by Richard Bach who wrote such books as: Jonathan Livingston Seagull, The Bridge Across Forever, and One to name just a few. Mary was also an avid reader of all books written by Rod McKuen, such as: An Outstretched Hand, The Sound of Solitude, Seasons in the Sun, Alone, The Sea Around Me, Loves Been Good To Me, and Looking For a Friend to name just a few. Mary was also an avid reader and writer of poetry. One of her favorite authors for poetry was Robert Frost. Mary also enjoyed reading many books and biographies on John and Jackie Kennedy and Princess Diana.
She also loved to cook, preparing home cooked meals from scratch for every holiday and birthday tradition for her children and grandchildren. She was Baptized Catholic and attended mass at Saint Mary’s Catholic Church of Pinckney when her health allowed her to be in attendance. Mary regularly rejoiced and relied heavily on her strong faith and her steadfast belief in our Lord. Mary highly admired Mother Teresa and read extensively about Mother Teresa’s life and life missions.
Mary had a difficult life in many regards due to her chronic poor health and a life caught in the repetitive cycle of poverty for her and her children. However, she kept a very optimistic and positive outlook on life and displayed a sense of hope to those around her despite the obstacles she was faced with on a continual daily basis. Mary was very patient and often gave constructive and useful advice to those who sought her counsel, namely her children and grandchildren.
She is survived by four sons, Lt. Colonel Michael Sennett of Atlanta, GA, Mark A Sennett of Pinckney, Matt C. Sennett of Pinckney, Brian M. Sennett of Ann Arbor; a daughter, Laura Stelcz of Sachse, TX; a half brother of Santa Barbara, CA; 9 grandchildren; 6 great-grandchildren; and many nieces and nephews.
The Mass of the Resurrection will be held Saturday, February 25, 10:00 am at St Mary Catholic Church in Pinckney, with Rev. Richard Lobert officiating. Burial will follow at Mt. Olivet Cemetery in Chelsea, Michigan. Memorial contributions may be made to the family (c/o Brian M. Sennett P.O. Box 167, Pinckney, Michigan 48169).
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