Mary Reid Paterson

Mary Reid Paterson, 89 “Summa Petenda” February 5, 1932 - October 4, 2021

In loving memory of Mary, born in Lanark Scotland, a natural storyteller, kindhearted, elegant in style, youthful in mind and spirit, and a witty conversationalist with a zest for life. Mary lived an extraordinary life as a courageous, independent, unassuming woman. By example Mary inspired other women to realize their potential in an era that was very constrictive.

From a young age Mary had the unique experience of learning about business from her father, managing his radio, bicycle and housewares business. At age 21 when her father passed away she took over the family business. Then, in 1964 at age 32, Mary made a bold and brave move to America where she was immediately hired by O’Rourkes and Levy Brothers in San Mateo. Mary soon became the first female Sales Rep for Mikasa, Sasaki, and Ricci, marketing fine china, crystal and silverware, ultimately becoming the first number one saleswoman on the west coast. Simultaneously Mary opened and ran one of the largest showrooms in the San Francisco gift center to display her lines for major department stores in northern California and Hawaii. During the 1989 earthquake the showroom samples and display of china and stemware fell on the floor shattering in pieces, very little remained untouched. Ironically, at that time Mary was living in Half Moon Bay and managed Table Topics in the Strawflower Shopping Center where the quake did little damage to the store or home. The damaged merchandise was a major loss and a time for change. True to her character, Mary never gave up and soon became a real estate agent.

Mary loved the finer things in life, enjoying art, music, and design. She followed her high school motto, “Summa Petenda,” aim for the highest. Mary passed away at age 89 in her home in Redwood City, where she resided with her loving partner of 32 years, Helen and Caregiver Miri. Parents Janet and Thomas Paterson predeceased Mary, and brother Thomas Paterson lost his life in WWII.. Surviving family include her sister, Jenny, and husband Wilson Barre; nieces Jennifer and Margery, nephew Richard, great nieces, Susannah and Kiera, great nephews Oliver and Lorne. Margot Sales of Toronto maintained an ever lasting friendship with Mary that began when they first met at Dalziel High School in Scotland.

Gratitude to Mission

Hospice and Home Care San Mateo, to the loving care and support extended by Hospice nurses and extraordinary volunteers. Mary touched the lives of many and was surrounded by friends.

Celebration of Life will be held virtually on February, 2 2022. If you would like to attend, please send an email to MRPCelebration22@ gmail.com. Donation suggestions: Mission Hospice and Home Care 66 Bovet Rd Suite 100

San Mateo, CA 94402 Make a Memorial Gift online at Arthritis.org