She was born March 29, 1916 in Newburgh, New York and moved to Port Charlotte in 1969 from Newburgh. Mary grew up in Newburgh and graduated from Newburgh Free Academy. She was a cashier in her fathers food market and later was employed by Sears Roebuck and Company in the business office as a bookkeeper.

She was married to Samuel Podell until his death in 2006. They enjoyed many years together boating, card playing and Golf. They were Life Members of the Charlotte Harbor Yacht Club. She was a member of the Womens Club, past member of the Port Charlotte Golf Club and Grandmothers Club of Port Charlotte. She was an avid Bridge player.

Survived by her daughter, Lynne Ziegler of Port Charlotte; a sister Jane Fasciano of Newburgh, NY, a brother, Anthony DeCrosta of New Port Richey FL; two grandchildren, Victor Pignataro of Campbell Hall, NY and Dr. Charles Pignataro of Galesburg, MI; a step son, Harold Podell of Maryland; many nieces and nephews. Four great grandsons and one great granddaughter. Preceded in death by her parents, Immaculato Ferrigno and Ernest DeCrosta.