Mary Reich

Born in Saskatoon, Saskatchewan, Mary lived a life defined by friendship, generosity, and love. In nursing school, she met her beloved husband of 54 years, Bob. While she grew up in a small prairie city, she was never limited by it. She traveled widely, and they eventually settled in New York, building a life far beyond those beginnings. Although she spent most of her adult life in the United States, her Canadian roots always remained close to her heart.

Service was the thread that ran through her life. As a visiting nurse, she cared for patients in some of the poorest communities of Queens. She later ran her husband Bob's psychiatric practice, mastering every new wave of insurance paperwork and technology while being the practical voice helping Bob strategize solutions for those he cared for.

She gave generously of herself, leading Cub, Brownie, and Girl Scout troops, was a docent at the Science Museum of Long Island, President of the PTA and the United Community Fund, and faithfully worked the polls on Election Day every year. As a lifelong feminist, she championed women and believed deeply in equal rights and dignity for all.

She was the person people turned to for advice and reassurance, bringing people together and making difficult situations feel manageable. She was a wonderful listener with patience and compassion and spent countless hours giving a wide circle of people practical help.

Mary loved New York and embraced everything it offered. She was a devoted opera lover, a frequent theater attendee, and an enthusiastic explorer of the city. She loved tennis and was especially proud of her net game. Storytelling was a passion; she was never seen without a book and delighted in movies and shows introducing new people and perspectives. She loved the NY Times Crossword and Spelling Bee and worked them until the day she passed.

An exceptionally talented baker and host, Mary created traditions beloved by generations of family and friends. Her annual Christmas party was legendary, bringing together more than forty guests for over five decades. Her Rosh Hashanah and Passover celebrations were equally anticipated, filled with extraordinary food, laughter, and community.

Sharon’s family moved in when Mary was eighty, and she seemed to age in reverse overnight. She helped with homework, played piano and imaginary games, shuttled kids to activities, provided emotional support, and showed up every day with patience, energy, and love. To her grandchildren she was far more than a grandmother; she was a second mother, a joyful presence at the center of their lives.

Mary leaves a whole community better for having known her. She was predeceased by her beloved husband Bob and is survived by her children, Jim and Sharon; their spouses, Caroline and Kevin; her grandchildren, Hannah, Nathan, and Julia; and her beloved dog, Daisy. Our homes and our hearts are emptier without her.

We will be getting together to celebrate her life at 11 Vista Dr., Great Neck, NY 11021 on Thursday 6/4 from 5PM to 8 PM and on Friday 6/5 from 11 AM to 2 PM. Please feel free to join us for either or both times.

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