Mack

Paula McCloskey Mack, of Butler, a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, daughter, sister, friend, and educator, passed away on Monday, Oct. 28, 2024.

Born Dec. 21, 1940, and raised in Johnstown, she was the daughter of Dr. Paul and Pauline McCloskey and the younger sister of Ann McCloskey Martin. Paula earned her degree in elementary education from Rosemont College in Philadelphia and later obtained her Montessori certification from the Montessori International Center at Cleveland State University.

Paula met her husband, Thomas F. Mack, on a blind date, leading to a marriage that spanned 59 years. Together, they raised four children, Tom, Susan, Karen and John, who were their greatest joy.

Paula began her career as one of the nation’s first Head Start educators and later devoted over 35 years to the Butler Montessori School. While raising her family, she worked part time as a Montessori teacher and also served as the school’s director from 2001 until her retirement in 2011.

Paula will be remembered for her intelligence, quick wit, loyalty and love of music.

She is survived by her dedicated husband, Thomas; her son, Tom Mack (Colleen) and their children, John and Lindsay; her daughter, Susan Albert (Peter) and their children, Shannon and Sam; her daughter, Karen Mack (Carolyn); and her son, John Mack (Shelby).

She was predeceased by her sister, Ann.

Paula’s legacy lives on through her family, friends, students and everyone fortunate enough to know her.

MACK — A mass of Christian burial for Paula McCloskey Mack who died Monday, Oct. 28, 2024, will be celebrated at 10 a.m. Wednesday, Oct. 30, at St. Andrew Catholic Church, 1660 N. Main St. Extension, Butler. Catholic burial will follow at St. Peter’s Cemetery, 1004 N. Main St. Extension Butler.

In lieu of flowers, donations in Paula's memory can be made to the Butler Montessori School by visiting ButlerMontessori.com and clicking on the “Support Our School” button.

Arrangements have been entrusted to YOUNG FUNERAL HOME, 127 W. Jefferson St., Butler.

For more information, go to www.youngfuneralhomes.com.

Please sign the guest book at www.butlereagle.com.