Mary Jane Hughes

EAST BERNE - Mary Jane Hughes (Rissacher, Sturdy), 70, passed away August 28, 2017 at home with her children by her side after a courageous battle with cancer.

Born in Poughkeepsie and raised in Scotia, she was the daughter of the late Clifford Andrew and Harriet Jean Sturdy. A 1965 graduate of Scotia-Glenville High School, she went on to earn an Associate's degree in Veterinary Technology at SUNY Delhi followed by a B.S. in Animal & Veterinary Science at the University of Maine in 1970. Afterwards, she returned to Scotia to begin her first career conducting pharmaceutical research. She soon married Jean Rissacher, a chiropractor, and became a full-time parent while raising animals on a small farm. As her children grew older, she began a second career with Cornell Cooperative Extension providing services to many in the city of Albany. During this time she obtained her Masters in Education in Youth Development, from Concordia University. During her career she worked on a vast array of projects but was most proud of her work with youth whether that be through 4-H programs, summer camps for inner-city children, teaching kids to garden or helping young mothers learn parenting skills through classes and mentoring.

Mary Jane had many interests including spending time with family and friends especially her very important and supportive church family, gardening, beekeeping, hiking, kayaking, fishing and making art out of nature. She was dedicated to creating a better planet for her children, grandchildren and community.

Mary Jane lived by the motto faith, family and love. She was a devout Christian and this sustained her throughout life and during her difficult battle with cancer. She was a tremendously giving woman who touched many people over her lifetime. She was always ready to lend a hand to those in need. Her family, friends and church will always be grateful for her kindness, devotion and love. Although she was sad to leave behind all those she loved she was at peace knowing she was entering into the arms of God.

Mary Jane is survived by her children Daniel Rissacher (Patty) and Janeen Smith (Chris); brother Andrew Sturdy; grandchildren Xavier, Charlotte and Gabe Rissacher and Grayson Smith; and her beloved dog, Morgan. She is also survived by her loved ones, Nancy Rissacher, Linda Ashline, Joe Rissacher, Lori Charash, Chris Terry, Jimi Rissacher and their families; a long with nieces, nephews, cousins and many friends.

A service will be held 11am Friday at the Bethlehem Community Church; 201 Elm Ave.; Delmar, NY. A luncheon will immediately follow at the Church, all are welcome to attend. In lieu of flowers, donations in Mary Jane's memory can be made to one of two organizations she cared for: her church (above) or 4-H Youth Programs 4-h.org/get-involved/donate/ .