Maryann Catherine Bumgarner, of Lebanon, passed away peacefully on May 3, 2026, with family by her side. She was 84 years old. She was born on April 8, 1942, in Torrington, CT, to the late Thomas and Gertrude Kostak.

After high school, she earned a degree in Nursing in 1964 from the William W. Backus Hospital in Norwich, CT. She was a dedicated and caring R.N. working as a Labor and Delivery nurse right after nursing school and eventually working at the former Norwich State Hospital for many years before she retired when the hospital closed its doors for good. Maryann was very proud to have chosen Nursing as her profession even well after retiring. During her career she also proudly trained as an EMT. Maryann recently became a member of the Connecticut Nurses Honor Guard. In 1965, she married Carroll Lee Bumgarner and continued raising his children Carolann, Cindy, Randy and Connie as her own. Together they had two daughters Cheryl and Cathy. They raised their large family in Norwich, CT as well as spending summers at their cottage on Amston Lake in Lebanon, CT. Carroll sadly predeceased her in 2021.

Maryann led a life rich with curiosity, creativity, and deep love for her family. She was someone always eager to learn, try new things, and share her joy with those around her. A member of Lee Memorial United Methodist Church in Norwich, Connecticut, Maryann found both faith and community there. Her warmth and kindness touched many. Maryann loved unique sports cars having owned several throughout her life and attending car shows with her husband Carroll. She and her husband also had a love for camping in their motorhome camping in various campgrounds throughout New England. Maryann had a special love for music, particularly bluegrass. She not only enjoyed listening to Bluegrass, but was also an accomplished musician, proudly playing the upright bass in her family band the Rose City Bluegrass Band during the 80's and 90's. Music was a thread that brought her closer to those she loved, filling her home with rhythm, laughter, and togetherness. In her quieter moments, Maryann found joy in crocheting, creating pieces that reflected both her patience and creativity. She had a wide range of interests and hobbies and was never one to sit still; she delighted in trying new activities and exploring whatever caught her attention. She was also a devoted fan of the Harry Potter series, finding magic in its stories, films, and collectibles. That sense of wonder and imagination was something she carried throughout her life. Maryann shared a special bond with her beloved dog, Oliver, who was a constant companion and source of comfort and happiness. Above all else, Maryann cherished her family. She leaves behind memories filled with love, laughter, and the reminder to embrace life fully and wholeheartedly.

She will be deeply missed but always remembered with love by her children Carolann Butler, Cindy Moreash, Randy Bumgarner, Connie (David) Lee, Cheryl (James) Plecan and Catherine (Keegan) Day; her five grandchildren, and one greatgrandchild as well many extended family members and friends.

Maryann donated to many charities. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to a charity of your choice. A visitation will be held at the Aurora McCarthy Funeral Home in Colchester, CT on Monday, May 11th from 5 7 PM. Burial will be Tuesday, May 12th at 11:00 am at the Bozrah Rural Johnson Cemetery in Bozrah, CT. For online condolences, or to share a story of Maryann, please visit www.auroramccarthyfuneralhome.com