Mary Elizabeth Chandler (nee McGrory) passed away peacefully on July 22, 2026, at the age of 89.

Mary was born in Darby, Pennsylvania, on September 6, 1936, to the late Francis A. and Genevieve E. (nee Malloy) McGrory. The family crossed the bridge and became “the Jersey McGrorys,” and Mary grew up in Audubon with her big brother Frank, “Irish twin” Patsy and little sister Kathleen, as well as Aunts Ann and Marie. She attended St. Rose of Lima grammar school in Haddon Heights and later Camden Catholic High School.

During high school Mary met the love of her life, Roy Chandler, and they were married in 1957. They made their home in Pennsauken, N.J., where they welcomed their son, Michael, in 1964.

Over the years Mary worked at Bell Telephone as a phone switch operator, in the women’s clothing department at Strawbridge & Clothier in Cherry Hill, NJ, and the gift shop at Virtua Hospital in Marlton, NJ. Her final home was Spring Hills in Cherry Hill.

Mary was an honest, caring and strong woman with a sharp wit who enjoyed bird watching, caring for plants and going for scenic drives in Roy’s convertible. Her happiest moments were those spent with family, especially weeks at the Jersey shore or trips to Newport, Rhode Island.

Mary was predeceased by her beloved husband of 62 years, Roy Chandler; her son Michael (Lydia) Chandler; and her siblings Francis McGrory, Patricia (Frank) McKenna (nee McGrory) and Kathleen (Wayne) Roberts (nee McGrory). She is survived by her grandchildren, Lindsey (the late John) Swartz and Brandon Chandler; great grandchildren Jack and Ave Swartz; and sister-in-law Carole (the late Harry) Bendyna, as well as many nieces and nephews. 

Relatives and friends are invited to attend her Mass of Christian Burial on Tuesday, August 11, 11:15 AM at St. Stephen Church, 6306 Browning Road, Pennsauken, NJ 08109.  Inurnment will follow at Calvary Cemetery, Cherry Hill, NJ.