Mary V. Liese

ALBANY – Mary V. Liese, age 91 Albany, passed away peacefully in her home during the early morning on October 3, 2018. Known by her family as “Ma,” she was born on November 28, 1926, in Brooklyn to the late Florence E. and Joseph S. Macken and grew up in Rockville Center, Long Island.

Those who were lucky enough to know Ma will vouch that she had it all: a contagious spirit, extraordinary generosity, classic beauty, sharp wit, unwavering strength and the greatest sense of humor. Those who were even luckier to call her family knew that the best spot to be during a family gathering was as close to Ma as possible. Sitting near Ma meant that by the end of a meal, your stomach would hurt from laughing too hard rather than from eating too much; and that you would be asking to pass the napkins to wipe away tears of laughter rather than food. They also knew that she would never stop worrying and caring for them above herself, even during her last days.

Ma’s spirit will continue to shine though her family who will make sure they continue to laugh hard, keep up to date with the New York Post, celebrate their Irish Heritage, cheer on their favorite sports team, smile often and talk about her frequently, as she so often caught them doing. Ma was predeceased by her six siblings; oldest daughter Janice; and best friends, aunt Roberta and aunt Dorothy. She is survived by her children and grandchildren, Mary Christine (son Ray), Ricky (wife Debbie), Diane (children, Maureen, Darren and Kelly), Aejal (children, Shea and Eamonn), Kelly (husband John), Andrew, and Janice’s children (Shannon, Courtney, Megan, Adam, Erinn and Patrick); and many in-laws, nieces, nephews, great-grandchildren, friends and family too numerous to list but not forgotten.

Family and friends will gather to celebrate her life at the Hans Funeral Home, on Sunday, October 7, for visitation from 3-6 p.m. The funeral service will be on Monday, October 8, in All Saints Catholic Church beginning at 9 a.m. Interment will follow in St. Agnes Cemetery, Menands. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to All Saints Catholic Church, 12 Rosemont St., Albany, NY, 12203, where Ma was a dedicated member and had a deep love for her community; or to The Community Hospice Foundation, 310 S. Manning Blvd., Albany, NY, 12208, who provided loving support and comfort during her final journey. To leave a message of condolence for the family or obtain directions to the funeral home, please visit www.HansFuneralHome.com. Life has changed not ended.

Click here to view Ma’s resting place in St. Agnes Cemetery, Menands, New York.