Maria Magdalena Roddy

Maria Magdalena Roddy passed away peacefully at age 93 in Chicago, Illinois on 11/15/2025.
Originally born Maria Magdalena Sixt on February 2.1932 in Nuremberg, Germany to Maximillian and Magdalena Sixt. She loved her "Mama and Papa" and her brothers, Max and Heinz, all of whom preceded her in passing, but stayed closely connected with them throughout their lives.
She is survived by her daughters, Loretta and Patricia, her sons in law, Greg and George, and her four grandchildren, Erin, Calvin, Veronica and John- all of whom she had much love for.
Maria met the love of her life, John Joseph Roddy (on February 14, Valentine's Day) through her Uncle Hans. They were married 52 years and she was devoted to John throughout her life.
As wartime took place in Germany during her childhood- she was fortunate to be housed by the Whitaker family in England- where she learned the English language their customs- Tea time became one of her favorite pleasures in life! She also had a unique eye for quality goods and a gift for understanding the basics of how things worked. One of her first jobs was at a sewing factory where she had to know how the machine worked and more importantly how to repair it.
After John's service ended in Europe- they moved their family stateside to Illinois and eventually settled in Lake Forest. Maria again took pride in her work as a trained Cosmetologist at the Marshall Fields in Market Square. She won numerous awards and commendations (from Estee Lauder personally) for her exemplary accomplishments in sales. She was a lifelong animal lover- especially her Shelties, Nepal and Skipper, and was considered by family as a Patroness of lost and injured animals who gravitated to her throughout her life.
A faithful and cherished friend to many throughout her life. She was respected for standing up for principle and for advocating for family, friends and coworkers in their times of need. She was raised Catholic, and married John under Catholic tradition- however later in life she studied and practiced Buddhism in Sarasota, FL.
Maria lived a long, full life and will be greatly missed by her family who are privileged and blessed to have been graced by her.