Mary Catherine Novotny, 89, of New City, NY, passed away peacefully on October 31, 2026 surrounded by her family. She was the daughter of Hugh and Mary Owens, first-generation Irish immigrants from County Tyrone
Mary was born February 6, 1937 in Manhattan, NY. She graduated valedictorian of her 1955 class from St. Catherine’s Academy, Bronx. She then enrolled at Misericordia Hospital School of Nursing in 1957 where she earned her Registered Nurse license. Mary married William J. Novotny in 1958 and the couple eventually settled in New City where they raised their eight children. A lifelong learner, Mary returned to school while raising her family, earning a Bachelor of Science in Behavioral Science Community Health from Mercy College, Dobbs Ferry, summa cum laude, at age 45. In addition to her complete devotion to family and faith, Mary was an avid reader, enjoyed weekly social gatherings with her close St. Augustine’s friends, and was ever expanding and updating her treasured Irish Family Tree, especially her relationships with Beragh in County Tyrone. Mary even found time to be a full-time nurse for 20 years at Albertus Magnus High School, Bardonia, providing care and guidance to her students.
Mary’s cherished husband Bill of 53 years died on May 20, 2011. Mary is survived by their sons, William and wife Gina, Michael and wife Eileen, Daniel, Robert, Kevin and wife Kelli, and daughter Jeanne Lawler and husband Stephen; 14 grandchildren and 4 great grandchildren. They were predeceased by their beloved sons Brian on September 11, 2001 and John on February 17, 2006. Mary is predeceased by her brother Bernard and his wife Joan, and daughter-in-law Lorraine.
Visiting hours will be held on Friday, November 6 from 3–8pm at the Michael J. Higgins Funeral Home, 321 South Main Street, New City. Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Saturday, November 7 at 10am at the Church of St. Augustine, 140 Maple Avenue, New City. Interment will follow at Gate of Heaven Cemetery, Hawthorne, NY.
In lieu of flowers, the family asks that you consider a gift to the Brian Novotny Memorial Scholarship Fund, which benefits students at Albertus Magnus High School.
