Mary Ishkanian

Mary Ishkanian, beloved sister, aunt, and great aunt, died peacefully and surrounded by loved ones on September 6, 2020 at the age of 92. Born May 26, 1928, she was the daughter of the late Herand and Ardemis (Missirlian) Ishkanian.

Mary grew up in Lynn, Massachusetts and was a 1946 graduate of Lynn English High School. She received a Bachelor of Arts from Emerson College, a Masters of Education from Northeastern University, and pursued graduate studies at Boston University. Mary began her teaching career in the Lynn Public Schools in 1953. She was a beloved Speech, Drama and English teacher for 38 years. In 2005, Mary was inducted into the Lynn English High School Hall of Fame. She was a dedicated teacher who treasured her students and championed their success. Upon her retirement, Mary remained active in the City of Lynn Community Arts Program as well as many local charitable organizations.

Mary will be missed for her colorful personality and fashion sense, whimsical tales from her travels abroad, and passion for the arts. She had an impeccable memory and had the special ability to make everyone she met feel loved. Above all, Mary will be remembered as an incredibly generous and exceptionally caring sister, aunt, teacher, and friend.

Mary is survived by her sister Shenorig "Grace" Ishkanian and brother Gerald Ishkanian, both of Wakefield; her nieces Susan Ishkanian and Nancy Ishkanian; nephews Robert Ishkanian, Stephen Ishkanian, and Peter Ishkanian; many great- and great-great-nieces and nephews; as well as many dear friends and former students. Mary is preceded in death by her brother, Sarkis Ishkanian.

Due to COVID-19 guidelines and restrictions, funeral services will be private. Interment will take place at Pine Grove Cemetery in Lynn. Arrangements are in the care of the McDonald Funeral Home, Wakefield.

In lieu of flowers, donations in Mary's memory may be made to: Lynn Home for Women, 144 Broad St, Lynn, MA 01901 or to the Lynn English High School Drama Program, 50 Goodridge St, Lynn, MA 01902.