Mary J. Pragle

Wayland, NY September 22, 1933 – March 31, 2026 Age 92

Mary J. Pragle, age 92, of Wayland, passed away peacefully at her home on Tuesday, March 31, 2026.

Born on September 22, 1933, in Wayland, Mary was the daughter of the late John and Wilhelmina (McCartney) Tonkery. Throughout her life, Mary was known for her strong work ethic and dedication to serving others. She held a variety of positions over the years, including working as a meat cutter at Grand Union in Wayland and Red & White in Springwater. She also shared her talents as a cook at Mr. T’s and the Bryant Hotel in Wayland. In addition, Mary worked as an aide at United Cerebral Palsy in Rochester and provided housecleaning and home health care services to many in the surrounding communities.

Mary was deeply committed to her community. She volunteered for many years with the Springwater Ambulance and was an active member of the Springwater Methodist Church, where she was well known for making homemade ice cream for the annual ice cream socials. She also generously gave her time volunteering at the Vincent House in Wayland.

In her free time, Mary found joy in the simple pleasures of life. She enjoyed crocheting, playing cards, dancing, birdwatching, and visiting the casino. She will be remembered for her kindness, generosity, and the care she showed to everyone around her.

In addition to her parents, Mary is predeceased by her son, Mark Pragle; her husband, Harmon Pragle; and her siblings: John Tonkery, Norbert Tonkery, William “Billy” Tonkery, and Vincena Byron.

Mary is survived by her children: Randy (Debbie) Pragle, Mary Beth (William Oldham) Pragle, Heather (Skip) Cleveland, and her daughter-in-law, Sandra Pragle; her grandchildren: Andrew (Shelbi) Cleveland, Alexandra (Billy) Diodato, Allison (Scott) Weaver, Kristen (Mark) O’Lexy, and Kelli Pragle; great-grandchildren: Joseph Cleveland, Baby Girl Weaver due in September 2026, Emma O’Lexy, and Patrick O’Lexy; her siblings: RoseAnn Wolfanger, Frances Sauerbier, Mina Coons, and Joseph Tonkery; and many very special nieces, nephews, and cousins.

Per Mary’s request, services will be held privately. Burial will take place in Saint Joseph Cemetery in Wayland.

In lieu of flowers, please consider making a memorial contribution to Spring-Way Ambulance, PO Box 625, Wayland NY 14572, or to CareFirst Hospice, online at CareFirstNY.org or by mail: 3805 Meads Creek Road, Painted Post, New York 14870.