Mary Guariglia

Mary Guariglia, (affectionately known as "Birdie") 90 of Manchester Township, NJ passed away on July 5th, 2023 peacefully in the comfort of her home, surrounded by her loving family. She was a very special wife, mother, daughter, aunt, grandmother and friend.
Mary was born on August 9th, 1932 in Newark NJ. She graduated from South Side High School and worked for GAB as a Dictaphone operator in Washington DC. She then met the love of her life, Richard (Dick) at a mutual friend's wedding and it was love at first sight. They were married one year later, June 5th 1955 and married for 64 loving years. Before moving to Manchester, they resided in Roseland for 38 years where they raised their two girls, Dawn and Pamela who were the light of her life. When her granddaughter, Amanda was born her world became even brighter. Mary, always provided the best of everything for her children and family.
Mary was a devoted homemaker first and foremost, devoting time to raise her family. She returned to work at Burrelles in Livingston as a marketing representative. Since fashion was one of Mary's passions, she returned to work after raising her daughters selling fine women's boutique clothing. Mary's love of fashion and people always put her at the top of her sales team and every customer was her priority.
While living in Renaissance for 26 years she belonged to the Women's Club, volunteered for the Annual Turkey Drive for the Community Food Bank and enjoyed water aerobics, yoga, and was a proud supporter of Richard's music at Renaissance. Mary and her husband loved traveling to Europe, the Caribbean Islands, Bermuda and Canada. Sharing time at the beach was a favorite pastime. Mary was a great cook. One of her pleasures was cooking Armenian, Italian and American food. She was the most wonderful hostess for every occasion. Mary made sure birthdays, milestones, and holidays were celebrated with elegance and style. She will be remembered for her legacy of pure selfless love and commitment to her family.
A special thanks to Mary's caregivers, Helen and Janina. Mary's life was extended through their gentle loving care and support. Mary's family appreciates them and is eternally grateful.
Mary was predeceased by her husband, Richard who passed away in March 2019. She was also predeceased by her parents, Zabel and Mamas Ashukian, sister, Anne Calin, and brother, Jack Ashukian, (Ann). She is survived by her two beloved children, Dawn, (Kenneth) Thorn, Pamela Guariglia and Salvatore Puccio, granddaughter, Amanda Abajian, and many nieces and nephews.
A memorial service will be held on Saturday, August 19, from 2 pm - 4 pm at Oliverie Funeral Home, 2925 Ridgeway Road, Manchester Township. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made online at Alzheimer's Association, Donation Services, 225 N. Michigan Avenue 8th Ave. 17th Fl. Chicago IL 60601 or online at Hackensack Meridian John Theurer Cancer Center.