AUGUSTA - Mary M. Staples, 71, died unexpectedly on Friday, June 11, 2004, at MaineGeneral Medical Center in Augusta. She was born in Waterville on Oct. 24, 1932, the daughter of Harold Thomas and Gladys (Mosher) Carter. A graduate of Gardiner High School, she was employed at Edwards Manufacturing Co. for several years, and when the company closed she worked at the state of Maine police barracks until her retirement. After her retirement, she worked in the cafeteria at Cony High School and volunteered at the Maine Veterans' Home. Mary was a member of the American Legion Post 205 Ladies' Auxiliary, the Cushnoc Senior Citizens Club, Gardiner Singles Club, and the United Bikers of Maine Lewiston Singles Club. A very active woman in her retirement years, she enjoyed traveling to Atlantic City and, most important of all, she loved playing bingo. She was predeceased by her husband, Edwin C. Staples, on Aug. 10, 1997, and also by one brother and one sister. Mary is survived by her companion, George Doucett of Augusta; one son, Thomas Staples and his wife, Gloria, of Richmond; one daughter, Terry Farrington of Augusta; two sisters, Dorothy Bennett of Stafford Springs, Conn., and Rita Pelletier of Massachusetts; two grandchildren, Sarah Farrington of Augusta and Erika Staples of Portland; and many nieces and nephews. A graveside service will be held on Tuesday, June 15, at the Maine Veterans Memorial Cemetery, Civic Center Drive, Augusta, with Pastor Stuart Hilton officiating. For those who wish, donations in Mary's memory may be sent to: the American Heart Association, Northeast Affiliate, 343 Gorham Road, S. Portland, ME 04106. Arrangements are in the care of Knowlton & Hewins Funeral Home, 1 Church St., Augusta.