Portland-Mary Cremonese Rush died November 23, 2017 with her children by her bedside. Born in Portland, she was the eldest daughter of Joseph Cremonese and Domenica (Nicolai) Cremonese. After graduation from Portland High School, Mary worked at Loring Short and Harmon and later became a teacher aide in the Portland school system. She began her career at North School and later moved on to Hall School where she made many lifelong friends.  Mary volunteered for the USO during WWII and during that time she met her future husband James Paul Rush. Mary was a member of the Smooth Steppers dance club where she was an accomplished dancer.  She was a lifetime member of The Italian Heritage Club and St. Peter's Catholic Church. She was also a member of the Retired Teachers Assoc. and her local book club. She was an avid scrabble player and enjoyed oil painting and cribbage.  Mary continued solving the daily cryptoquip well into her 94th year. Mary was predeceased by her husband James Paul Rush, her brother, John Cremonese, her sister Elizabeth Senechal and her grandson Taylor Gray Johnson of Scottsdale, AZ. She is survived by her daughter Kathleen Rush Brown and her husband Joe Brown of Queen Creek, AZ, son Peter Rush of Monterey CA , daughter Elizabeth Rush Axelsen and her husband Douglas Axelsen of Old Orchard Beach, and daughter Joanna Rush of Portland. She also leaves behind seven grandchildren, six great-grandchildren and four great-great- grandchildren.  Mary also leaves behind her dear friend Mary Salamoni of Portland. Following her wishes, there will be no service.  Burial will be private.