Mary Kalista-Small ... enjoyed gardening, canning; at 68

FARMINGTON - Mary Kalista-Small, 68, of Farmington, died on July 13, 2024.

She was born on May 18, 1956, in LaGrange, Ill., daughter of the late Henry and Mary Agnes (Flaherty) Reiss. Mary grew up in Cleveland, Ohio, and attended John Marshall High School.

For more than 30 years, Mary was a real estate broker in New Hampshire and Maine helping people find the home of their dreams.

Mary loved spending time with her family, being outdoors at the lake or beach, gardening and canning. Her hot pepper jelly was legendary. She had a big heart for all creatures great and small and was always rescuing and bringing home new pets including horses, chickens, dogs, cats, rabbits, and even a turtle named Rosie Bloom. Mary always welcomed friends and strangers alike with a warm smile and tight hugs. She was the life of the party with a playful spirit and if there was music, you would usually find her dancing and singing along.

Mary is lovingly remembered by her husband Robert Small, her daughters and son-in-law: Tasha Kalista, Rachel Kalista, Heather (Kalista) and Kenneth Harwood, her grandchildren: Karlin O'Neill, Ella Corriveau, Harrison and Anna Harwood; brothers and sisters: John (Sue) Reiss, Peggy Reiss, Paul (Jean) Reiss, Catherine Bellantis (deceased); her nieces and nephews, her daughters' father, John Kalista, her beloved dogs, Allie, Sammie, and Sadie and many lifelong dear friends.