Mary G. Harris, age 89, of Bloomsburg, passed away on Sunday, October 1, 2023, at her home, surrounded by her loving family.

She was preceded in death by her parents, George and Marie (Klauser) Ginzel and her sister, Gretchen Ginzel. Mary is survived by sisters; Betty Hartigan and Marge Lerach. Mary was born in 1934 in St. Paul, MN. She graduated from Ortonville High School and attended Macalester College where she graduated with a degree in Education. Mary taught high school in Minnesota and then moved to Los Angeles where for the next 28 years she worked primarily in education as a teacher and student counselor for middle and high school. She also had a brief stint as an Executive Recruiter. Mary continued to pursue her higher education which culminated in a Doctorate in Sociology of Education from USC in 1987.

In 1989, Mary accepted a teaching position at Bloomsburg University in Pennsylvania and spent the rest of her career in the role she loved most: college professor. She retired in 2009 as a tenured Professor of Education and spent her remaining years splitting time between New York City, Bloomsburg and traveling the world with her sister Gretchen and many friends. Mary was an avid reader, bridge player and photographer. She loved to cook and entertain, hosting many dinner parties. She will be remembered for her fierce commitment to teaching, diversity training and advocating for racial equity. A passionate educator, Mary touched the lives of many students by encouraging them to learn and grow. Thank you to all the friends and family that helped care for Mary, especially Kathy, Andy, Katie, Loraine, her sister Marge, as well as the care from Compassus Hospice.

Private services will be held at the convenience of the family. The Allen Funeral Home, Inc., 745 Market at Eighth Street, Bloomsburg is honored to be serving the Harris family.

Memorial contributions in Mary's name are suggested to: Animal Resource Center, PO Box 439, Bloomsburg, PA 17815.