Obituaries

Maryann Readling, age 90, died October 21, 2018 in Binghamton, NY.

Maryann commented “My mother died when I was born, and if someone gives up their life for you, you better make a good trade. So through these things I felt I was meant to help someone.” Maryann loved well and was loved in return.

She was born on November 30, 1927 in Buffalo NY. Her mother died in childbirth and as her father was only 21, she went to live with Laura and John Meyer, her aunt and uncle. They were her family along with he brother Don, now deceased. She graduated from high school and nursing school, graduating in 1948 From Mount Mercy School of Nursing. Her friends said she was a “swell” nurse.

The nuns felt she had an aptitude for ministry and suggested she may want to join the order, but she respectfully declined. She met her husband John Readling, and they married on August 26, 1950. She was a wonderful wife and homemaker and mother to her 5 children. When she was 30 she cared for her mom Laura as she died from cancer. In 1962 the family moved to Oswego New York when John joined the faculty at SUNY Oswego.

She, with husband John and son Tom were long-term members of the Newman center and St. Mary’s church. She made many an afghan for the St. Mary’s Bazaar! She was an advocate for help for the handicapped as a volunteer in the Oswego County School- Committee on special education.

She saw her role as helping other parents to feel comfortable, and understanding that they have a “say” in their children’s education. She has also volunteered with ARC in Oswego County. She described caring for a special needs child not as a tragedy, but as an opportunity to meet the challenges that have been given. She took joy in simple everyday things, and was quick to help a friend or neighbor. She was drawn to the care of the ill and dying after the death of her father. She joined the Friends of Oswego Hospice as a volunteer sending time with those who were ill and dying.

She gave of her herself but strongly believed that she was given much more from those who she cared for. She was thankful for the help of Hospice when John died at home in 2004. She volunteered on the Oswego Hospital Auxiliary. She was there for her family children and grandchildren alike, whether making Grannies wieners and beans, or apple pie. She made quilts and afghans that could be your portable hug from Grandma. She was a wonderful craft person, and made beautiful beaded Christmas ornaments, as well as many other crafts. She loved playing cards with friends and family.

She was always ready for a game of Canasta and held no hostages. She was happily married for 53 years to John, and Tom, her son, was her companion for over 50 years as well. She had a special place in her heart for Grandson Ed and daughter Teresa as they lived in Oswego for several years when Ed was a little boy. She had many friends who she cared for deeply, and had great times with. In her advancing age they were a gift to her and greatly appreciated by all of us. In the summer of 2015 following a brief illness she began to decline progressively. In late December, 2016 she fell and was hospitalized. She was not safe at home.

She went to Binghamton, as did Tom, staying with Joe and ultimately moving to his new home at Pathfinder Village. I know John and Maryann are proud and happy for Tom.

Maryann is survived by daughter Maris (Trayton) Davis, of Montclair, NJ, ; sons John (Loraine) of Buffalo, NY, Joseph (Yvonne) of Binghamton, NY, and Thomas of of Pathfinder Village, Edmeston, NY, as well as by 10 grandchildren. She is predeceased by brother Don Meyer, and most loving husband John, and daughter Teresa Savio.

There will be a viewing at 9 am on November 3rd at the Nelson Funeral Home. The funeral service to follow at 10:30 at St. Mary’s Church. Burial will be at Riverside Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers contributions can be made to Friends of Hospice of Oswego County, at friendsofhospice.org or at PO box 102, Oswego, NY 13126.