Mary Elizabeth Evans Keefe, 71, of Williston, Vt., passed away on May 11, 2026, after a courageous battle with cancer, surrounded by the love of her family.
Mary was born on August 24, 1954, in New York to Joseph and Rita Evans. She grew up in a large, lively family, and from an early age she had a natural warmth and generosity that drew people to her.
On June 1, 1974, she married the love of her life, Larry Keefe, beginning a partnership and love story that would span more than 50 wonderful years together
Mary built a meaningful career in health care, working for the University of Vermont and Aesculapius Medical Center. Her work supporting the health care community was a natural extension of who she was, someone who found her deepest purpose in helping others. Whether in her professional life or at home, Mary had an extraordinary ability to make people feel cared for and seen. She was genuinely empathetic, honest and always the first to offer support when someone needed it. She also knew how to have a good time, and her warmth and laughter made every gathering better for her being there.
Above all, Mary treasured her family. She was incredibly proud of her four grandchildren, Maggie, Paige, Emmett and Reilly, who brought her immeasurable joy. Time spent with family and friends was never something she took for granted; it was the very center of her world.
Mary is survived by her beloved husband, Larry Keefe; her daughters, Jamie Saylor and Michelle Rovnak; her four cherished grandchildren; and her brothers Pat Evans, Chris Evans and Tim Evans. She was preceded in death by her parents, Joseph and Rita Evans; her brothers “Little” Joe Evans and Michael Evans; and her sister, Theresa Debarge.
Mary lived with grace, loved with her whole heart and leaves behind a world made better by her presence. May she now find peace and rest.
A funeral service will be held on May 30, 2026, 1 p.m., at the Immaculate Heart of Mary Church in Williston, followed by a reception celebrating Mary’s life at the Williston Golf Course beginning at 4 p.m. All who knew and loved her are welcome to gather and share in her memory.
In memory of Mary, please consider a donation to the UVM Cancer Center in honor of the compassionate, high-quality care that they provide for our loved ones and neighbors (give.uvmhealth.org/cancermemorialgift).
Please visit awrfh.com to share your memories and condolences.