Mary Jacquelynn Mattheu

Mary Jacquelynn Mattheu, a beloved member of her church community and her family, passed away on July 18, 2025, in Middle River, Maryland, at the age of 82. Born on February 23, 1943, in Baltimore, Maryland, Mary dedicated her life not only to her family but also to her career as a cook for Baltimore County Schools, where she touched the lives of countless children and made a lasting impact through her nurturing spirit and passion for cooking.

Mary was a cherished wife to LeRoy F. Mattheu and a loving mother to her three children: George Bennett III, Margie Bennett, and Michelle Amoriello, who, along with her husband John Amoriello, brought further joy into Mary's life. Her legacy continues through her grandchildren, Maria Bennett, Jessica Smith, George Bennett IV, Joshua Bennett, Dakota Knott, Stell Amoriello, and Gianni Amoriello, who were the light of her life. Additionally, Mary was a proud great-grandmother to eight great-grandchildren, each holding a special place in her heart.

She is preceded in death by her parents, George Balles and Mary Irma Balles, who laid the foundation of love and values that Mary carried throughout her life. Additionally, she is survived by her siblings, Lee Balles and Lynn Lewis, who remember her fondly.

Family and friends are invited to pay their respects at Bruzdzinski Funeral Home, P.A. in Essex, Maryland. Visitation will take place on July 23, 2025, from 2:00 PM to 4:00 PM and again from 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM. A Mass in her honor will be celebrated at Our Lady Queen of Peace Catholic Church in Middle River at 10:00 AM on July 24, 2025.

Mary Jacquelynn Mattheu's kindness, warmth, and unwavering love for her family will be deeply missed but forever remembered by all who had the privilege of knowing her. Her spirit lives on in the hearts she touched and the lives she enriched.