Mary M. Bruda

Albany – Mary (Mooney) Bruda, 86, passed away peacefully on Thursday, April 18, 2013, surrounded by her loving family. She was born in Brooklyn, NY and was a long time resident of the Pine Hills Section in the City of Albany.

Mary was a graduate of Vincentian Institute and Mildred Elley Business School. She married the love of her life, George Bruda, on July 14, 1951 and was a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, sister and friend. She stayed at home for many years while raising her family and later worked part-time in the office of Dr. James Furlong. At a time when most people her age were looking forward to retirement, Mary accepted a full-time position at the NYS Department of Public Service and worked there for 11 years until she retired in 1993. She was active in two bowling leagues, attended aerobics classes, played a little golf, attended all of her grandchildren's extracurricular events, and had great fun playing poker every week with a close group of girlfriends. Mary was also a volunteer at St. Peter's Hospital, a longtime member of the Columbiettes at the Knights of Columbus, and an avid fan of Siena basketball. She especially loved holiday get-togethers, annual vacations to Myrtle Beach, Thatcher Park picnics, weekly lunch outings, and any excuse for a celebration with family or friends.

Mary and her husband George were blessed to spend 61 years together until he predeceased her in September 2012. It is comforting to know that Mary has been reunited with George, but her presence on earth will be truly missed. She is survived by her three children, Nancy (Robert) Mead, Mary Ann (Thomas) Shoudy and Robert Bruda. She is the cherished grandmother of Robert (Renae) Mead, David (Erin) Shoudy and Matthew Shoudy. She is the loving great-grandmother of Lorryn Mead. Mary was also predeceased by her dear brother and sister-in-law, Joseph and Kathleen Mooney.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Monday at 9:30 a.m. at The Parish of Mater Christi, 40 Hopewell Street, Albany. Calling hours will be Sunday from 3:00 to 6:00 p.m. at New Comer Cannon Funeral Home, 343 New Karner Road, Colonie. Interment will be n St. Agnes Cemetery, Menands. Those wishing to remember Mary in a special way may send memorial contributions to Community Hospice, 445 New Karner Road, Albany, NY 12205.