Mary E. Fritz

Fritz, Mary E., 53, of Richland. Passed peacefully with her family by her side Mar. 5, 2015, at UPMC Shadyside Hospital. Born Oct. 2, 1961, in Pittsburgh. Daughter of the late Ralph and Patricia (O’Connor) Pillage. Survived by husband of 35 years, William T. Fritz, MD; children, Kristine; Andrea and husband, Devin McDermott; Mark and Kaitlin. Granddaughter, Brielle McDermott. Sister of Thomas, William, Paul and Lynda Pillage.  1987 Graduate  with Honors in Accounting from Drexel University. Member of Beta Alpha Psi and Beta Gamma Sigma. Post Graduate Teaching Certificate in Elementary Education from Drexel. Member of St. Benedict Catholic Church, Geistown, where she taught and volunteered at the school. She was an amazing wife, mother, and grandmother who enriched and encouraged those around her. Mary’s kind and generous spirit shined all year but especially sparkled during Christmastime. She loved to travel and hike the world alongside her husband. With grace and dignity, she conquered her cancer battle with faith over fear. Though her years were short, she truly lived life to the fullest and counted her blessings. She left a legacy that will live on forever. Friends received 4-8 PM Sunday and 2-4 and 6-8 PM Monday at the Harris Funeral Home, 500 Cherry Lane, Richland, where Vigil will be held. Funeral Mass will be held at 10 AM Tuesday at St. Benedict Church.  Fr. David S. Peles, Pastor.  Committal at Calvary Cemetery, Pittsburgh on Wednesday at 1 PM. Family suggests donations to St. Benedict School in memory of Mary. (Online condolences may be posted to www.wharrisfuneralhome.com)