Obituary of Mary Abreu
Mary "Monya" Abreu, age 90, of Rome, passed away peacefully at St. Elizabeth's Hospital on Monday, May 1, 2023 surrounded by her loving family.
Monya was born on May 27, 1932 in Rome, the daughter of the late Peter and Tekla (Hudak) Makarchuk. She graduated from Rome Free Academy in 1951, and was accepted at Cortland State Teacher College. On September 3, 1956 Monya and John Abreu were united in marriage and shared that sacred vow until John's death on May 29, 1983.
Monya enjoyed birds, especially cardinals, and collected bird figurines. She loved Christmas, country and western music, polkas, old movies, looking at pretty cards, doodling, writing stories, and Betty Boop. In her later life, Monya enjoyed watching "The Andy Griffith Show." Most of all, she enjoyed spending time with her family that she adored and loved with all her heart.
Monya is survived by her five children, Donna, John (Pauline), Paul (Suzanne), and twins Kathy and Kenneth; and brother, Nicholas (Ann) Makarchuk; and a sister-in-law, Arda Makarchuk. She was blessed with 11 grandchildren, who called her Nana: Christopher Powell who thought of Nana as a second mother, Brenden Powell (predeceased) Tamara Grant, Ashleigh Abreu, Matthew Abreu, Andrew Abreu, Michaella Abreu, Aryann Abreu, John Abreu, Avery Abreu, and Larissa Abreu, as well as numerous nieces and nephews; and her faithful dog, Rosie. She was predeceased by her grandson, Brenden, a special "son-in-law," Gary Milliman; and her five brothers, Harry (Beverly), Peter, Paul (Audrey), Edward, and William.
We would like to extend our sincerest gratitude to Dr. Anwar and Dr. Emile Wassel for the compassion and care they showed to our mother throughout the years, and to the St. Elizabeth Hospital staff.
Monya’s funeral will be held on Wednesday, May 10, at 11 AM, at the Barry Funeral Home, 807 W. Chestnut Street. She will be laid to rest in Rome Cemetery next to her beloved husband, John.
Relatives and friends may call at the funeral home on Tuesday, May 9, from 4 to 7 PM.