Sylvia Rose Neary

Sylvia Rose Neary, 85, passed away peacefully on Thursday, Jan 10, 2013 at Carmel Gardens, Teresian House with her family by her side. She was born on Aug 21, 1927 in Cambridge, MA to the late John and Philomena Murgia. She worked as a Confidential Stenographer with the NYS Governor's Office until her retirement. Sylvia enjoyed golfing and won many tournaments in the late 1970's and 80's. She was a longtime member of the Pine Haven Country Club and an active member of the Retired Officers' Association. Sylvia was one of the original members of St. Clare's Church, attending for over 72 years of her life. She was a communicant of St. Clare's Church where she was a Eucharistic Minister, and on the bereavement group, pastoral council and the funeral ministry. She volunteered at the Veterans Hospital and the Albany Airport as an Ambassador for many years.

In addition to her parent's she was predeceased by her husband's Robert S. Smith and B.G. Martin L. Neary Jr. (Ret.) and her brothers John Murgia Jr. and Albert Murgia.

She is survived by her children, John S. (Lourdes Umandap) Smith, of Glen Bernie, MD., Christopher Smith of Fla., Laura-Ann Smith of Schenectady, NY, Brian A. (Rhonda) Smith of Latham, NY, Richard A. (Cindy Leigh) Smith of VA., Dawn M. (John McCauley) Morrison of Colonie, NY., 13 grandchildren, several great-grandchildren, her two brothers Henry (Martha) Murgia and Edward (Marilyn) Murgia and many nieces and nephews.

The family would like to thank the entire staff at the Teresian House especially Sonia Fox with Carmel Gardens for all of the care, compassion and support given to Sylvia and her family.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Teresian House, 200 Washington Ave.,Ext. Albany, NY 12203 in Sylvia's memory.

A Mass of Christian burial will be celebrated on Tuesday at 9:00 am at St. Clare's Catholic Church, 1947 Central Ave. Colonie. Calling hours will be Monday night from 4:00 pm to 7:00 pm at the Church. Burial will follow the Mass in Our Lady of Angels Cemetery.