Mary B. Kennedy

Mary B. Kennedy (née Orbon, and previously Mabb), died peacefully in her sleep early Sunday, Sept. 20, 2015, at Livingston Hills Nursing and Rehabilitation Center, after a long and courageous battle with frontotemporal dementia (FTD.)

Mary was born in Hudson, NY on Jan. 19, 1937, to the late Simon Orbon and M. Lucy (Seymour) Orbon (later Burger.) She is survived by her daughters, Kathy A. Colman and Holly M. Burritt (Ken), both formerly Mabb; granddaughters Melinda K. Miner (Scott Rodgers) and Michelle R. Colman (fiancé Anthony Panza); sister Marguerette Vanvakas (James) of Sanford, FL, and many nieces and nephews. Mary was pre-deceased by her first husband, Richard Mabb (amicably divorced) and widowed by second husband, Welton (Bill) Kennedy; sisters: Jessie VanAlstyne, Teresa Race, and Rita Race; and her dearest friend Marian Hotaling.

Mary graduated Hudson High School in 1955, after leaving home at 13, working various jobs while attending school, then was briefly a secretary until marrying at 19 and raising her daughters fulltime. She later worked a decade as School Nurse's Aide at Ichabod Crane, and at various administrative support positions including Stratford School, Chaucer Square Office Complex, and Kaiser Permanente, before a well-deserved retirement. Widowed shortly after, Mary later shared a home with daughter Kathy, until her advanced illness necessitated nursing home care earlier this year.

Mary dearly loved all wild and domestic animals, and cared for many animal companions. Before her illness she also enjoyed nature walks, scenic drives and day trips, feeding birds/chipmunks/squirrels, theme parks/rollercoasters, shopping, movies. She played volleyball, softball, horseshoes, board and card games, and loved spending time with family and friends. She was a devoted mother, caring wife, loyal and steadfast friend and neighbor, beloved Grandma and Aunt, and dedicated employee. Mary had a good and kind soul, and always selflessly put the needs of others before her own. She positively touched the lives of many, and won a place in the hearts of all who knew her.

Calling hours will be from 5:30-7:30 pm on Thursday, Sept.24, immediately followed by a brief Memorial Service in celebration of Mary's life at New Comer Funeral Home, 343 New Karner Road, Colonie. Any who wish will be encouraged to tell a story or say a few words about what Mary meant to them. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Mary's honor to any animal rescue group or shelter.