Mary Elizabeth Blackburn

Mary E. Blackburn, 77, of Erie, passed away Wednesday, November 4, 2026 at Fairview Manor, after an extended illness. She was born June 2, 1949 in Erie, a daughter of the late Matthew T. Blackburn Sr. and Mary E. (Shandorf) Blackburn.

She attended Saint Paul Grade School, continued her studies at McDowell High School, where she proudly graduated with the Class of 1967. She went on to earn her Bachelor of Arts in Education from Villa Maria College, and then continuing her educational journey until she earned her Master's Degree. She furthered her education by completing a Computer Science degree from Edinboro University.

For 35 years, Mary dedicated her life to nurturing young minds as a teacher for the Crawford County School District. She was the driving force behind establishing computer labs in the School District, which was one of her proudest accomplishments.

Known affectionately as a true Christmas enthusiast, Mary indulged her brothers, sisters, nieces and nephews with thoughtful gifts throughout their lifetimes.

In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her sister-in-law, Dawn Blackburn and her faithful dog, Shadow.

She is survived by her sister, Kathleen Pae; three brothers, Matthew T. Blackburn, Jr. (Christine), Mark R. Blackburn (Sherri), and Gerald V. Blackburn; and her beloved nieces and nephews: Matthew Blackburn (Christy), Emma, Matthew, and Hannah; Melissa Kilburn (Klay), Klayton, Ashton, and Khloe; Dr. Kaitlyn Blackburn; Jessica Karotka (David), Faye; Angela Johnson (Alex), Ethan and Drew; Andrew Blackburn; Thom Blackburn (Marissa), Theo.

Funeral Services and burial in St. Gregory Cemetery will be private. The John R. Orlando Funeral Home, Inc. is handling arrangements.

Memorials may be made to the Erie Humane Society, eriehumanesociety.org or the charity of your choice.