Nashville, TN, October 1, 2025
News Summary
Mary Chamberlain Breen, a devoted educator and community leader in Nashville, passed away at the age of 94. She made significant contributions to education and her church, impacting countless lives. Her legacy of love remains alive through her family and the communities she served. A visitation and Mass will be held to honor her memory.
Nashville, Tennessee — Mary Chamberlain Breen, a cherished educator and community leader, passed away peacefully at the age of 94 on September 25, 2025. Her contribution to education and the Nashville community will be remembered fondly by those whose lives she touched.
Mary was born on June 18, 1931, in Chattanooga, TN, to Catherine Seiner and James Robert Chamberlain. She married Hugh Michael Breen on August 27, 1959, at Our Lady of Perpetual Help in Chattanooga, TN, and they shared 62 loving years together until his passing. Mary is survived by her daughters: Marianna Breen-Lane, Michelle Breen-Jones, and Karen Breen. She was also a grandmother to Angela (Cody) Terwilliger and Stephanie Baker, and a great-grandmother to Taylor Thurman, Lyla Cwiakala-Jones, Natalie Nichols, Mia Baker, and Rosie Baker. Surviving family members include her sister Kay Henson and sisters-in-law Gerry Chamberlain, Dorothy Williams, and Barbara Breen. Mary was preceded in death by her husband Hugh, granddaughter Kelly Jones, son-in-law Dennis Lane, and several siblings and dear family members.
Mary graduated from Notre Dame High School in Chattanooga and continued her education at Sienna College in Memphis, Tennessee, where she earned a degree in education. She began her teaching career in Chattanooga, before moving to Nashville, where she served the Christ the King School community as a passionate teacher for over 20 years.
In addition to her dedication to education, Mary was a devoted member of Christ the King Catholic Church. She actively participated in the church as a lector and Eucharistic minister to the sick at St. Thomas Hospital. Mary contributed her time and efforts to various ministries and organizations, including the Women’s Council, Ladies of Charity, Colonna Club, and the Diocese Council of Catholic Women (DCCW). Her commitment to her faith extended to participating in the parish prayer chain, providing prayers and intercessions for those in need.
Known for her gentle spirit, compassion, and kindness, Mary was considered a grandmother to many who didn’t have one of their own. Her legacy of love and support will live on in the hearts of her family and the many lives she impacted through her teaching and community service.
Visitation for Mary Chamberlain Breen will be held from 9:00 to 10:00 a.m. on Monday, October 5, 2025, followed by a Catholic Mass at 10:00 a.m., with burial scheduled at Calvary Cemetery immediately afterward.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to be made to the Christ the King Tuition Assistance Fund or the Father Ryan High School Tuition Assistance Fund. The family also expressed their gratitude to the staff at Woodcrest for the special care provided to Mary during her final days.
FAQ
Who is Mary Chamberlain Breen?
Mary Chamberlain Breen was a beloved Nashville educator and community leader who passed away at the age of 94.
When did Mary Chamberlain Breen pass away?
Mary Chamberlain Breen passed away peacefully on September 25, 2025.
How long was Mary married?
Mary was married to Hugh Michael Breen for 62 years until his passing.
What was Mary’s educational background?
Mary graduated from Notre Dame High School in Chattanooga and earned a degree in education from Sienna College in Memphis, Tennessee.
What was Mary’s role in the community?
Mary served as a passionate teacher at Christ the King School for over 20 years and was actively involved in her church and various charitable organizations.
Key Features of Mary Chamberlain Breen’s Life
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Birth Date | June 18, 1931 |
| Pass Away Date | September 25, 2025 |
| Marital Status | Married to Hugh Michael Breen for 62 years |
| Education | Notre Dame High School, Sienna College |
| Teaching Career | Over 20 years at Christ the King School |
| Community Involvement | Various ministries and organizations, including Catholic church roles |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Additional Resources
- Davidson County Source: Mary Chamberlain Breen Obituary
- Wikipedia: Mary Chamberlain
- The Tennessee Tribune: Neighborhood Mural Unveiling
- Google Search: Mary Chamberlain Breen
- Dignity Memorial: Joseph Breen Obituary
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Education
- NewsChannel 5: Celebration of Life for Father Joseph Breen
- Google News: Obituaries
- Legacy.com: Philip Breen Obituary
- Google Scholar: Community Service
Author: HERE Nashville
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