Mary Sophie Cleese

Mary Sophie Cleese of Rogers, age 89, passed away on Friday, January 10th , 2025 at
Rogers Health and Rehab. She was born on September 16th , 1935 in Denver, Colorado
to Paschal Joseph and Raphaela (Florence) Rose DiPilla.

Mary grew up in Denver, Colorado and graduated from St. Francis De Sales High
School in 1953. Played in the Colorado Just Kids Band from 1950-1953. She went on to
receive a bachelor’s degree from Denver University in 1957 while helping as a section
teacher. She was an extraordinary clarinet musician. Teaching at Colburn High School
Colburn Colorado in 1957/1958. Then as a substitute teacher for 20 years in the Denver
Public School systems. She went on to work at Denver bank for more than 10 years.
She assisted with the Denver City Wide Band and orchestra for a combined 12 years.
She worked as a private teacher over the years. Affectionally known as “Mama Pizzelli”.
She was a member of Mu Phi and loved music, cooking, and her family.

She was preceded in death by Phillip Cleese and her younger brother; Robert DiPilla.
Mary is survived by her children, Paschal and Julie Cleese of Rogers Arkansas, Michael
Cleese of Waco Texas, Angela and Dennis Williams of Holiday Island Arkansas, Julia
and Joe Haines of Hayden Colorado, and Vincent Cleese of Vancouver, Washington,
her sister Virginia Lane of Springdale Arkansas, five grandchildren and four great
grandchildren.

A Memorial Service will be on May 17, 2025, at the home of Paschal and Julie Cleese;
14625 Bogey Ln, Rogers AR, 72756. 703-969-2426