Obituary of Audrey Willey

Audrey Marie Willey passed away Good Friday, April 10, 2009, at Our Lady of Mercy Life Center, Guilderland, after a long illness. Born in Albany, Kentucky, on January 29 1925, Marie lived most of her adult life in the Capital Region, most recently in Niskayuna. She was employed for many years and retired from Ford Motor Company's Green Island plant. It was at Ford that she met her longtime companion, Donald Alan Willey of Niskayuna. She and Don married later in life. Don passed away in May of 2002. Marie was born to Edna and Ephriam Parrigan as one of nine brothers and sisters. She was predeceased by her sisters, Ruby, Sis, Theo, Margaret, and Jean; and her brothers, Johnny and Bill. She is survived by her brother, Elmer. One of her sisters, Ruby, passed away at a young age, leaving four children behind. Marie, a single working woman, brought her niece and nephews, Carolyn, Walter, and Tom to live with her and raised them as if they were her own children. Under difficult conditions, she provided them shelter and support. Marie loved to sew and made most of her own clothes. She also loved to garden and to travel with her late husband. In addition to her brother; her niece, Carolyn; and nephews, Walter and Tom, she is survived by several nieces and nephews; and several great-nieces and great-nephews. Marie's family would like to thank the nurses and staff at the Guadalupe wing of Our Lady of Mercy Life Center. These dedicated people showed great compassion and gave Marie comfort in her final days and hours. Private services have been arranged by Daly Funeral Home. Memorial contributions may be made in honor of Our Lady of Mercy Life Center to St. Peter's Hospital Foundation, 319 South Manning Blvd., Albany, NY 12208.