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Mary-Helen "Holly" Ferkett

January 17, 1942 - February 06, 2022

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Obituary For Mary-Helen "Holly" Ferkett

Mary-Helen "Holly" Ferkett, age 80, passed away peacefully at home on Sunday, February 6, 2022, eight months after being diagnosed with cancer. She will be deeply missed by her loving family and many others who knew her generous spirit and welcoming nature. Holly was born January 17, 1942 in Philadelphia, PA. She is survived by her children, Pamela Ferkett (Robert Mulvihill), Marla (Alan) Ferrency, Ross (Brigid) Ferkett, Kyle (Jayne) Ferkett, and Kirk (Amy) Ferkett; and grandchildren, Anthony, Martine, Ezra, Leila, Fisher, Elsa, Ethan,Teagan, Georgina, Hannah, and Naomi; as well as two sisters-in-law, and many cousins and nieces. She was preceded in death by her parents Hunter and Jeannette Corbett, brother Charles H. Corbett, and daughter Laura.

Many community members will fondly remember Holly from her long career at the Pleasant Hills Public Library. She especially enjoyed her time as Children’s Librarian before serving as Library Director for 17 years. After retiring, she continued her involvement with the library as a volunteer and book sale co-chair with the Friends of the Library. Holly was a graduate of Gettysburg College and received her Master’s Degree in Library Science from the University of Pittsburgh.

Holly’s interests were many and varied. She was a lifelong animal lover, so there was always an adopted dog in the household and a number of cats and other pets over the years. Birdwatching was among her favorite pastimes, and she participated in backyard bird monitoring programs as an accomplished citizen scientist. Her many bird feeders were kept filled at all times and her wooded backyard was active with all sorts of wildlife. She kept a colorful wildflower garden and cared for dozens of houseplants. For many years, Holly raised and released monarch butterflies. She enjoyed baking, and her specialty was cutout cookies made with her collection of over 600 cookie cutters. As a member of Baldwin Community United Methodist Church, Holly participated in both the choir and bell choir. She was an avid reader and was skilled at Scrabble and other word games, as well as jigsaw puzzles.

As a mother and grandmother, Holly could not have been more devoted. She was a single parent to her five children and provided a life rich with experiences and learning opportunities, even welcoming several foreign exchange students into the household. She went on to dedicate an immense amount of her time and energy to support the upbringing of her 11 grandchildren. Holly will be remembered for her strength, resiliency, sense of humor, and appreciation of life. She was a special person.

Friends and family are invited to celebrate Holly’s life at an open house on Friday, March 4, 2022 from 4-8 p.m. at the Whitehall House, adjacent to the John F. Slater Funeral Home, 4201 Brownsville Rd, Brentwood, PA 15227, 412-881-4100. Burial will be private. Memorial donations may be made to the Pleasant Hills Public Library, 302 Old Clairton Rd., Pittsburgh, PA 15236, or an animal rescue or bird conservation organization of your choice.

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Condolences

  • February 23, 2022

    Lorene Wood

    Holly's family members, Our deepest sympathy to the family. May God bless all and grant you His comfort and peace. Joe and Lorene Wood

  • February 15, 2022

    Donna Moresea

    My deepest sympathy to the family. She was a wonderful lady. Always greeted with a smile when you went to the library.

  • February 13, 2022

    Carol McCullough

    Pam and Bob and Anthony, I am so sorry for your loss. The loving and thoughtful remembrances posted are a wonderful tribute to Holly. May your numerous warm memories give you comfort. Deepest condolences. Carol and Fred

  • February 13, 2022

    Louise Mitchell

    My deepest sympathy to her family. She will be missed .

  • February 12, 2022

    Gail Mikush

    Kyle, I am so sorry to hear of your mother's passing. My prayers are with you and your family. Gail Mikush

  • February 10, 2022

    Timmins Lana

    Holly is such a kind, caring and interesting person. Deepest sympathy to her family, who she truly loved so very much.

  • February 10, 2022

    Dottie Ingersoll

    Pam, Marla, Ross, Kyle and Kirk and family member what a nice tribute to a Wonderful Mom, Wonderful Friend and neighbor ( which I live across the street because of your family who are a part of my family). Love always and our family will always be here to support your Family.

  • February 10, 2022

    Karen Pavlik

    Holly was truly a good soul and loved her family. I always enjoyed talking to her when we would walk Ethan and John home after school many years ago. My deepest sympathy to Kyle, Ethan and the rest of Holly's family. 💕

  • February 10, 2022

    Paul Walsh

    What a Great Lady and Neighbor. She will be remembered in our Prayers. The Walsh's