Mary (Holden) Hayden, 93, of Ascutney, Vermont, beloved mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and friend, passed away peacefully at home on March 20, 2026, surrounded by her family.

Mary was born on September 13, 1932, in Northfield, Vermont, the daughter of Walter and Helen (Willey) Holden. She graduated from St. Michael's High School in Montpelier, VT, in 1951. On September 12, 1951, she married Robert Hayden at St. Augustine's Catholic Church. Together, they raised five children.

Mary began her working career at First National Bank and the Grand Union Store, both in Montpelier, VT. She later moved her family to White River Junction, VT, where she worked at the U.S. Post Office. After relocating to Brownsville, VT, she served as Postmaster for 23 years.

She was a member of the American Legion and Elks Lodge in Windsor, VT, as well as the Historical Society in Brownsville, VT. Mary found great joy in life's simple pleasures-especially her Sunday bingo games, a winning lottery ticket, and the occasional trip to the casino. She was a strong and determined woman who, once she set her mind to something, pursued it with unwavering focus and resolve.

She is survived by her children: William and his wife, Terrie, of Waltham, MA; Frank and Sharon of Troy, AL; Douglas and his wife, Amy, of Ascutney, VT; daughter-in-law Donna of Ascutney, VT; and son-in-law Gordon ("Buddy") Bennett of White River Junction, VT. She was blessed with 18 grandchildren, 12 great-grandchildren, and many nieces, nephews, cousins, and cherished longtime friends.

Mary was predeceased by her husband, Robert Hayden, in 2004; her son, Robert (Bobby) Hayden Jr. of Ascutney, VT, on March 13, 2018; and her daughter, Cheryl Hayden Bennett of White River Junction, VT, on November 18, 2025.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Bayada Hospice, P.O. Box 1590, Norwich, VT 05055. The family wishes to extend their sincere gratitude to the compassionate caregivers of Bayada Hospice for ensuring Mary's final days at home were dignified and peaceful. Additional thanks are extended to the doctors, nurses, and staff at Mt. Ascutney Hospital, as well as the dedicated ICU team at Dartmouth Hitchcock Medical Center.

A Funeral Mass will be held at 11:00 AM on Saturday, April 11, 2026, at St. Francis of Assisi Catholic Church, 30 Union Street, Windsor, VT. Visiting hours will be held from 10:00-11:00 AM in the church vestibule, prior to the Mass. Committal services will take place at the Brownsville Cemetery following the Mass.