Mary Catherine Cody

Mary Catherine Cody, age 102 passed away peacefully at her home on Tuesday, February 27, 2024. Born in Lambertville, New Jersey, on October 4, 1921, she grew up in Atlantic city. Mary graduated from Holy Spirit High School in Absecon, NJ in 1939 and attended Rider College in Lawrenceville, NJ. She bravely served in the Navy WAVES during World War II, from April 1943 to November 1945, stationed at Walter Reed Naval Hospital, and was honorably discharged as a Pharmacist's Mate 2nd Class.

After the war, Mary embarked on a fulfilling career with American Airlines, where she worked as an airline stewardess stationed at New York's LaGuardia Airport for 13 years. She advanced to the roles of supervisor and trainer and remained active in the stewardesses' Kiwi Club. Upon retiring from the airlines, she settled in Brigantine, New Jersey, purchasing her home at 103 3rd St. S.

Mary later pursued various roles, including working at Hess's Department Store in Allentown, Pennsylvania, as a designer journalist, and at the Wheaton Company, a silk-screening operation. She also served as an Assistant Housing Manager with the Atlantic County Housing Department from 1968 to 1973.

Mary was a lover of small dogs, occasional cats, and her beloved cat, BJ. She enjoyed playing and watching golf with friends, was an avid reader, and loved to travel well into her 80's. Mary also dedicated her time as a Salvation Army bell ringer during the Christmas season for multiple years. She had a fondness for the music of Perry Como and Frank Sinatra.

In November 2009, Mary fell into a coma at home and was saved by her friend, Barbara Meier. Mary subsequently moved to San Antonio, Texas, to be near to her cousin's family, Matt and Becky Cody-Compton. She lived in an independent assistive home, receiving loving care from Nadine Johnson and her husband, Saul Sanchez for the last ten years of her life. Mary was ambulatory until the final days of her life, a testament to the dedicated care she received from this extended family.

Matt and Becky extend their heartfelt gratitude to Nadine and Saul, along with their entire family, for their unwavering and loving care of Mary throughout these many years. They also wish to express appreciation for the kindness shown by Lupe, Jay, Jesse, and all others who assisted while in Nadine's care. The companionship provided by Eny Trejo, Brenda Bostow, Julie Miller, and fellow residents such as Stephen, Rosemary, Armando, Sam Foster, Mr. Hill, Mr. House, and others is deeply cherished. Additionally, special thanks is extended to Dr. Cortina, the nurses from the VA, and the dedicated caregivers from Klarus Home Health and Hospice for their invaluable support throughout this journey.