Mary Kathleen Harte Conlon
Born on September 10, 1927 in New York, New YorkPassed March 18, 2025 in Melbourne, Florida
Our Mom, Mary Kathleen Harte Conlon, took her last breath on Tuesday, March 18, 2025. She was 97 years old. Though memories were stolen from her in her final years, they are kept safe by those she gifted to us.
Mary Kathleen (who preferred Kathleen) was the sole child born to Catherine Sweeney and Peter Harte, who provided a nurtured, loving environment. At 19 years she would marry James Francis Conlon who would go on to become a lawyer after serving in Panama during WWII. Together they gave birth to three children: Noreen A. Conlon (Clifford Dufton), Stephen Peter Conlon (Alison) and James Harte Conlon (Ruth). Her children were her life’s work, and she loved them more than anything. She shared with them her innate love of the ocean, of animals, of her eclectic taste in fashion, cooking, and interior design. Her belief in God was unconditional as was her devotion to her parents. She was a fighter during challenging times and sacrificed whenever a child needed her.
All her children went to college, with her gentle encouragement and inspiration. All grew to be resourceful adults in professions they chose, following in her footsteps as a successful businesswoman, decades ahead of her time. Later they would bless us with seven grandchildren: Clifford J.C. Dufton (Katey), Kaitlin C. Dufton (Douglas Breckner), Stephen W. Conlon (Tara), Marielle J. Conlon, Evan H. Conlon (Erica), Erin H. Conlon and Clarke P. Conlon. In turn, they blessed her again with five great grandchildren: Stephen W. Conlon, Madelyn J. Conlon, James C. Raab, Avery N. Dufton, Ember R. Dufton and Peter F. Conlon.
Although Mom did not get to meet all her progeny, she did pass on her determination and resilience through her children. She was the foundation of our family, the glue that held us together in times of uncertainty.
We are grateful. Thanks for the memories; you will be missed.
