Mary Proodian

Mary Proodian, longtime resident of Little Ferry, passed away peacefully surrounded by her family on November 14, 2025, at the age of 89.
Throughout her career, she was known for her professionalism, dedication, and steady presence. She worked as a bookkeeper at DiMartini Chevrolet in Cliffside Park, where her meticulous nature and warm spirit made her a valued part of the team. She later served as an executive secretary to the engineering group at Melnor Industries, a role in which her organization, loyalty, and kindness left a lasting impression on everyone she worked with.
Beyond her career, she filled her life - and the lives of those she loved - with simple joys and meaningful traditions. She was talented in the kitchen, especially known for preparing delicious Armenian delicacies that brought family and friends together. She loved knitting, often creating beautiful handmade pieces for those she cared about. She had a deep affection for gardening, tending lovingly to both her outdoor plants and her cherished collection of houseplants. She also held a special love for Portland, Maine, her birthplace, where the natural beauty, coastal charm, and peaceful scenery resonated deeply with her and reflected her gentle spirit. Some of her happiest moments were spent by the Jersey Shore, where she found comfort and joy. Above all, she treasured time with her grandchildren, whose presence always lit up her heart.
She will be remembered for her warmth, her strength, and her unwavering love for her family.
Her legacy lives on in the many lives she touched, and she will be deeply missed.
Predeceased by her beloved husband Setrag Proodian, her sisters Arpi Jernazian and Seerarpi Papazian, brothers-in-law Jack Proodian, Herbert Takakjian, and Albert Jernazian, and niece Janet Takakjian.
Mary is survived by her devoted children, Paul Proodian, Susan Novak and her husband Frank, Sharon Gacek and her husband Gordon, and James Proodian and his wife Stacy. Cherished grandmother of Matthew, Aaron, Frankie, Andrew, Randy (Sarah), Troy, Christopher, Hannah, Sophia, James Daniel, Benjamin, and Luke; and her great-granddaughter Isabel Mary. Dear sister of Adrine Takakjian and aunt of Christian, Leslie, Laura, Amy, Marie and Edward. Mary will truly be missed by all who had the great pleasure of knowing her.
Family and friends will be welcomed at William G. Basralian Funeral Home, 559 Kinderkamack Road in Oradell on Friday, November 21st from 3-7PM. Funeral Services will be held at St. Leon Armenian Church, 12-61 Saddle River Road in Fair Lawn, on Saturday, November 22nd at 10:30AM. Interment following at George Washington Memorial Park in Paramus where she will be laid to rest with her husband.