Mary Ann Socha

Mrs. Mary Socha, 95, of Niskayuna, passed away peacefully at home on April 16 surrounded by her loving family. Mary was a beloved mother, aunt, and friend who will be dearly missed by all who knew her.

She was the daughter of the late John and Anna (Hogan) Briggs. Born in Schenectady, Mary graduated from Nott Terrace High School in 1948. She completed business courses from Cornell University. Mary worked at various jobs: at the Mica Insulator Company, Grants, A&P, and the Price Chopper (where she was the first woman evening manager) and took great pride in her work. She worked there for 26 years until she retired.

Mary married Edward Jensen in 1953. Later, she married Ben Socha in 1960 and was married for 55 years. Together, they raised a son and two daughters. Mary devoted nearly 20 years to collecting donations for the Alzheimer's Association and received many commendations for her efforts. She was awarded the Schenectady County Hon. Karen B. Johnson Older New Yorker of the Year Award in 2021. However, Mary felt that her biggest accomplishment was raising her children. She enjoyed vacationing in Sacandaga and Maine with her family, being part of the Sunnyview pool group, reading, making jam, telling stories, listening to music, praying, petting family dogs, hosting her garden parties, watching Caitlin Clark, “The Chosen,” and “The Gilmore Girls.”

Mary was predeceased by her husband Bernard (Ben) Socha, her brother John Briggs Jr., her sisters Lillian Brennan, Ellen Desotell, and Anna Payne. She is survived by her son Bernard Jr., daughters Bernadette and Anna Socha, sister Teresa (Thomas) Young, many special friends, and numerous nieces and nephews.

Her family would like to thank her wonderful providers, Dr. Roberta Miller, Dr. Craig Ritchie, and everyone at Home Medical Administration as well as Dr. Gary Bakst along with the incredible Community Hospice team, especially: Meaghan, Laura, Wes, Gabe, Deb, and Deirdre.

Calling hours will be held on Thursday, April 23, 2026 from 9 to 11 am at Cannon Funeral Home, 2020 Central Avenue, Colonie, NY 12205. Funeral services will commence at 11:00 am. Interment will follow at Most Holy Redeemer Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Alzheimer's Association of Northeastern NY or the City Mission in Schenectady. To share a memory of Mary or leave a special message for her family, please visit www.CannonFuneral.com.