Mary Elaine (Griffiths) Pengelly

Mary Elaine (Griffiths) Pengelly passed away, surrounded by family and friends, on Jan. 9, 2015 at age 86. Her passing was the result of complications from diabetes.

Mary was born in Klamath Falls, Ore. on Oct. 27, 1928, to Charles and Aubra E. (Bradbury) Griffiths. She was raised and attended school in Klamath Falls, graduating as the valedictorian from Klamath Union High School, Class of '46. Mary earned a bachelor's degree in biology at the University of Oregon, Class of '50 and later earned an advance degree from Radcliff College (Harvard) and a master of education from the University of Oregon.

She returned to Klamath Falls and met her future husband, Russell J. Pengelly. They were married on Aug. 14, 1954 and raised two children. In 1959 she moved to Burns, Ore., where both Russell and Mary taught school. Mary started her teaching career as a fourth-grade teacher. A few years later, she pioneered a new educational program in the field of special education.

Mary was especially fond of music; she was an accomplished musician, playing both the flute and piccolo. She was also involved in many community activities including: A founding member of the Desert Trail Association, an active participant with the Harney County Historical Society, Malheur Refuge annual bird count, Chamber Music Society of Harney County and the Presbyterian Church.

After retiring in 1987, Mary continued her many community activities as well as traveling and researching family history. After Russell passed away in 1994, she moved back to Klamath Falls, and then to Cheney to be near her family. Mary was well read, made friends easily, and had a great sense of humor!

She is survived by her brother Frank R. (Dick) Griffiths, two children, David D. Pengelly and Aubra A. Pengelly-Pollack, and three grandchildren, Todd D. Pengelly, Aaron C. Pollack and Zara E. Pollack. In lieu of flowers, please send a donation to a charity of your choice.

A memorial service, celebrating Mary's life, is planned for Sunday, Feb. 8, at 1 p.m. at Cheney Assisted Living, 2229 N. Sixth St.