Mary Katsuleris

Mary Katsuleris – May 9, 1939 – June 28, 2026

Mary Katsuleris, born on May 9, 1939, in Monessen, Pennsylvania, passed away on June 28, 2026, at the age of 87. She had been living between Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, and La Jolla, California, two places she called home in a life defined by movement, purpose, and an unwavering commitment to being exactly who she was. Mary was the daughter of the late Christine and Mike Katsuleris, and she carried the pride of her family with her everywhere she went. She is survived by her sister, Elizabeth Phelps, and her brother, George Katsuleris, both of whom knew firsthand the fierce loyalty and boundless generosity that defined her. She is beloved by her many nieces, nephews and lifelong friends who cherished her uniqueness and affection. A naturally gifted athlete, Mary was a pioneer for women in sports long before the world was ready to celebrate them. She began playing baseball at twelve years old and by fourteen had become a champion in women's competitive tennis. She went on to play women's softball well into her forties, competing with the same intensity and joy she brought to everything. Sports remained a lifelong passion, whether she was on the court, on the field, or cheering loudly for her beloved Pittsburgh Steelers. Mary dedicated thirty-eight years of her life to teaching, serving students across Pennsylvania, New Jersey, Ohio, and California. She was, in the truest sense, a student's teacher. Her commitment to her students extended far beyond the classroom and well past the final bell. She gave generously of her private time and energy, helping young people find their footing, and she was cherished for it. Her unrestrained humor made her unforgettable, and her unconventional independence made her one of a kind. She was the person who remembered every holiday, not just the big ones, and turned each into an occasion for cards, gifts, and connection. Beyond the classroom and the playing field, Mary was passionate about justice. She spoke her mind on political issues and never shied away from calling out what she believed was wrong. That fearlessness was perhaps her most recognizable quality, matched only by her intellect and her sharp, irreverent wit. Those who knew Mary well knew a few other things about her, too. She loved dogs with her whole heart. She was fiercely proud of her family. And she was generous in ways both grand and quiet, always looking for opportunities to give, to encourage, and to show up for the people she loved. Mary lived with a stubbornness and independence that made her impossible to forget and impossible not to admire. As Albert Einstein once said, "It gives me great pleasure, indeed, to see the stubbornness of an incorrigible nonconformist warmly acclaimed." Mary would have appreciated that sentiment, probably with a laugh and a wave of her hand, before changing the subject to the Steelers' season outlook. A memorial celebrating Mary's life will be held in La Jolla on August 29th. Details will be shared with family and friends. Mary Katsuleris lived boldly, loved generously, and left the world a little braver than she found it. She will be deeply missed.