PHILADELPHIA — Mary E. Beckstead, 77, of Pearl Street died Saturday, June 23, 2012 at her home while under the care of her family and Hospice of Jefferson County.

Born December 5, 1934 in Lorraine, NY, she was the daughter of the late Burt and Mary E. LaBrie Towles, and attended school in Adams Center.

She married Walter E. Beckstead, Sr. on June 16, 1956 at the Theresa United Methodist Church with Rev. Myron E. Van Ornum officiating. Mr. Beckstead died July 27, 2002.

Mrs. Beckstead was employed with Woolworth and Watertown Daily Times, both in Watertown, Marine Midland Bank, Evans Mills, was a babysitter and homemaker.

She enjoyed watching her grandchildren, baking, especially donuts, and watching wrestling and NASCAR.

Survivors include six sons and two daughters-in-law, Stephen and Dawn, Evans Mills, Stuart, Sackets Harbor, Walter, Jr., Watertown, William “Bill”, Randy and Amy, Tim and his companion, Laura Cook, all of Philadelphia; a daughter and her husband, Sherry and Randy Dobson, Philadelphia; a sister, Ethel Garrison, TX; eleven grandchildren; eight great grandchildren; nieces and nephews.

Two sisters, Eleanor Yerdon and Marion Towles and a brother, William died before her.

A graveside service will be 10 am Wednesday at Sanford Corners Cemetery, Calcium with Rev. Thomas Kornmyer officiating.

Calling hours are 5 to 7 pm Tuesday at Frederick Bros. Funeral Home, Theresa.

Donations may be made to the American Cancer Society or Hospice of Jefferson County.

Condolences may be made online at www.frederickbrosfunerahome.com.

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