Obituary of Mary G. Orlyk

RAYMONDVILLE – Mary Gladys Paige Orlyk, 84, passed away on February 9, 2024 after a long illness. She was born in Massena to Leo and Grace Paige, the first of six children. When she was very young, the family moved to Raymondville where she attended schools in the Norwood-Norfolk Central School District. She graduated from Norwood-Norfolk High School where her life-long passion for music was encouraged and developed by her teachers. Mary played in the orchestra, band and various vocal clubs while attending school. Mary married Michael Orlyk in Potsdam and lived in Philadelphia, PA, Rochester, NY, New Hampshire and Vermont before returning full circle back to Potsdam. Wherever Mary lived, she sang in various musical groups including a trio with two friends that sang in restaurants and clubs, church choirs, local community groups, and even a madrigal group. She even toured and sang in cathedrals in England with one group while living in New Hampshire. Mary also enjoyed playing keyboards at pubs and the Elks Club in Vermont and continued to play her keyboard up until her passing. Mary loved social gatherings of any kind and especially enjoyed attending family events. She is survived by her daughter, Brighid (Shawn) of Port Townsend, WA, her sisters Cindy Girard, Margie Jarvis (Tom), Grace Paige and Laurie Hettis (Floyd). She is also survived by her brother Leo Paige (Pat), and numerous nieces and nephews and great nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her partner of over 20 years, John McDonough of Essex Junction, Vermont and her brother-in-law, Robert Girard. Her ebullient personality and kindness will be greatly missed by all who knew her. There will be no services at this time per her request. A mass will be said at St. Mary's Church in Potsdam at a later date. Memories and condolences may be shared online at www.buckfuneralhome.com .