Mary “The Crazy Cat Lady” Leadley Craven (1946-2026)

Mary Leadley Craven, a truly beloved wife, mother, grandmother and teacher, passed away peacefully on February 6, 2026. Though she wouldn’t want you to know the year, Mary was born on April 7, 1946, as the cherished daughter of George and Frances Leadley. She was raised in Pittsford, New York alongside her brother Richard and her beloved dog Gretchen.

Mary attended Syracuse University, earning her Bachelor of Science in Education. After graduating she moved to Boston for graduate work, receiving master’s degrees from both Boston State College and Tufts University. Following this, she began a wonderful career as an elementary school teacher.

Mary spent most of her professional life with the North Syracuse Central School District at Bear Road Elementary School. Her students and coworkers will remember her for her genuine warmth, sense of humor, and (some) patience. In 1987, Mary gained national recognition for the creation of the "Apple Muffin Gang”. That year, Mary taught her fantastic group of fourth-grade students how to petition an assembly bill and successfully campaign and lobby to have the apple muffin declared the official muffin of New York State. Her savvy guidance teaching students the legislative process was a career highlight and a perfect example of her commitment to teaching civics through hands-on engagement. Despite the fanfare of the Apple Muffin Gang, Mary always said the best part of her job was teaching kids to read. Her dedication as an educator left a lasting impression on many of her former students.

Mary was predeceased by her husband Stephen J. Craven. Together they enjoyed summering in Rockport, Massachusetts and researching art with a focus was on twentieth century American. One of her favorite annual activities was fall trips with her husband to New York City to meet her brother Richard and sister-in-law Betty. There they would attend art exhibitions and tour galleries.

Mary’s favorite role was that of ‘Grandma’ to Oliver, Jackson, Grayson, and Peyton. She often declared that she had the ‘best grandkids’ ever. Watching them grow, adoring and spoiling them was the highlight of her life.

Mary is survived by her daughter Leigh Craven, son Sloan Craven, son-in-law Preston Saunders, daughter-in-law Rebecca Craven, her brother, nieces, grandchildren, and her cat Hartley. She is predeceased by her beloved husband and their many cats (Toby, Alfalfa, Buckwheat, Puffy, and Louis).

Details of the service will come shortly. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Mary's memory to Brigham and Women's Hospital, Development Office, 116 Huntington Ave., 3rd floor, Boston, MA 02116.