Wilford, Mary Jo

Mary Jo Wilford of Cranford, N.J., formerly of Cedar Rapids, passed away at her home on Saturday, July 14, 2012.

Mary was born Oct. 29, 1938, to Herman and Agnes Gutmann of Lisbon, Iowa.

Mary served as director of Constituent Services to Senator Bill Bradley of New Jersey from 1979 to 1997 - a job she loved. This opportunity came about due to her involvement in politics and from her experience in an earlier role as Constituent Assistant to Senator Dick Clark of Iowa from 1973 to 1979.

In 1997, Mary took a position at Columbia University, New York City, as manager of the Referral Center until her retirement in 2008.

Mary was an active member of the community she loved and resided in, Cranford, N.J. She was a member of the Cranford Historical Society and the Hanson Park Conservancy, and for many years was a member of the English Village board of trustees. She was also a volunteer for the Cranford Art Initiative and the Shakespeare Theatre of New Jersey. Mary never tired of seeking new adventures and experiences, and embraced those she met along the way with love and kindness that was evident to anyone who spent time with her.

She will be remembered as a loyal friend, activist, arts patron, mother, and Nana.

Left to remember her are her children, Elizabeth (David) Colson of Kalamazoo Mich., Laura (Alan) Fisher of Solon, Iowa, Kathy Merta of Cedar Rapids and Joe (Kristen) Wilford of Swisher, Iowa; seven beloved grandchildren;three great-grandchildren; and sister, Angela Schultz of Milwaukee, Wis.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be sent to Kokolulu Farm & Cancer Retreats, Inc., PO Box 340, Hawi, Hawaii 96719 or The Shakespeare Theatre of New Jersey.

Published July 22, 2012 in The Gazette