Story and photos by Karen Pearlman
Oct. 21, 2025 (Santee) – Making others happy was something Mary Hennessy did naturally, with no holds – or holes – barred.
As founder and owner of the iconic Mary’s Donuts in Santee, Hennessy sprinkled joy to others – and not just by way of diverse donut toppings, fruity fritter fillings and cinnamon-dusted donut holes, but also through her generous spirit, spreading positivity through acts of kindness and by virtue of making connections.
Mary Hennessy loved interacting with people. chatting with customers, helping behind the counter and especially seeing children come in.
“Handing out stickers to kids was one of her small joys,” said her granddaughter, Kelly Hennessy.
And she did it all for nearly 95 years.
Born Mary Churchill in the small farming town of Dexter, Minn., on May 3, 1931, Hennessy died at her La Mesa home on Oct. 19, 2025, surrounded by family members.
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