Mary Ann Sisson

Mary Ann Sisson (née Gerath), 84, passed away suddenly at Encompass Health Rehabilitation Hospital of Toms River on May 24, 2026. She resided in her home in Allentown, New Jersey, for more than 57 years, 46 of which she taught private piano and violin lessons in the family living room.

Born in Trenton, New Jersey, on August 2, 1941, Mary Ann was the daughter of the late Frank and Julia Gerath (née Antal). She attended Steinert High School, Takoma Academy, and graduated from Ozark Adventist Academy. She continued her education at Southwestern Adventist University in Texas and later graduated from Trenton State College with a bachelor’s degree in music education. Mary Ann taught music in the New Brunswick School District and at several private schools, including Meadowview School, Trenton Christian Academy, and Miriam Morris.

Mary Ann was a loving and devoted wife to her beloved husband, John “Jack” Sisson, for 38 years until the time of his passing in 2010. She was also predeceased by her three brothers: Frank Gerath (Anna, deceased), Roger Gerath (Lynda, deceased), and John Gerath.

A loving and hardworking mother, Mary Ann is survived by her three children: Stacy Spagnardi, Jacqueline Forss (Luke), and Jon Sisson (Danielle); three step-grandchildren, Anthony Verrilli, Emily Verrilli, and Robert “RJ” Kokoszka; one step-great-granddaughter, Evie Cooper; her sister-in-law, Bette Gerath; and several nieces and nephews.

Mary Ann was a dedicated member of the Hightstown Seventh-day Adventist Church, where she faithfully served as pianist and music leader. She enjoyed accompanying many soloists and choirs for church services, weddings, and special events. She treasured her relationship with each of her students and passed her love of music on to both Stacy and Jackie.

Also famous for her unmatched and exceptional baking skills, she always had bread, cake, pie, or cookies ready for guests and lovingly brought baked treats to church gatherings and family events. She was able to pass on that love of baking to Stacy. Another of her great joys was caring for her home and property and enjoying the serenity of country living. She especially loved watching the goats climb around the old barns and Ruby the horse graze peacefully in the pasture. Mary Ann went to sleep looking forward to the soon return of our Lord.

A memorial service for Mary Ann will be held on Saturday, June 27, 2026, at 4:00 p.m. at Robbinsville Seventh-day Adventist Church, located at 2314 Route 33, Robbinsville Township, NJ 08691.

Memorial donations may be made in Mary Ann's honor to the Robbinsville Seventh-day Adventist Church Pathfinder Club. Mary Ann and Jack loved and faithfully served together in this youth ministry for many years.

Services are entrusted to Jersey Shore Cremation Service, 43 Taylor Avenue, Manasquan, NJ - JerseyShoreCremation.com