Mary Kay (Fischetti) Blake

East Greenbush – Mary Kay Fischetti Blake, 78, passed peacefully in her home on Wednesday, November 26, 2025.

Born in Troy, she was the daughter of the late Theodore Fischetti and Helen Custo Fischetti, and the beloved wife of Robert T. Blake in a heartfelt marriage built over 56 years of love and devotion.

In addition to her husband, she is survived by her son, Robert (Linda) Blake; two daughters, Tara Marie Blake and Kimberly Ann Blake; and two grandchildren, Alexander Blake and Timothy Blake, all of East Greenbush. She is also survived by her brother, Bernie Fischetti of Troy.

Mary Kay was raised in Troy, where she graduated from Sacred Heart School and Catholic Central High School. She developed an interest in the emerging field of special education and went on to earn her bachelor’s degree from SUNY Geneseo, where she enjoyed fellowship in the esteemed Phi Kappa Pi (Clio) sorority. She later received her master’s degree from The College of Saint Rose after matriculating at the University of Virginia while her husband served in the U.S. Army.

Mary Kay relished a dynamic teaching career, ranging from early childhood learning at Holy Spirit School to substitute teaching in the East Greenbush district. She also taught special education at RCG BOCES (Questar III). She volunteered with The Junior League of Troy and taught religious instruction at Holy Spirit, where she was once honored for her dedication to service.

Throughout her career, she was fondly recognized by former students across three counties, even long after her retirement.

“Mare-Bear” was an avid reader, often found curled up in her pink armchair with her nose in books ranging from Ernest Hemingway to Debbie Macomber. She even kept a written log of every book she read. She cherished day trips with her daughters filled with culinary adventures and live theater, family vacations to Ogunquit, Maine, and oceanside walks along the Marginal Way in Perkins Cove.

Mare treasured her Wednesday mornings with her girlfriends (“Bruegger’s Babes”), where she would leave them in stitches with her deadpan delivery.

She knew her way around the kitchen, baking Italian pastries while dancing and singing along to the Bee Gees. She truly was “more than a woman.”

Mary Kay’s journey on this earth was one marked by love, compassion, and unwavering faith in God.

The Blake family would like to thank The Community Hospice, especially Jake Franchi, RN, and Rosemary Stahlman, hospice volunteer. They also extend heartfelt gratitude to the incredible “Mare Care” team - Peggy Dodge, Brittney Nichols, Antoinette Welch, Mary Etsey, Dionne Padmore, and Rhonda DeVoe. These angels gave their full presence to ensure Mary Kay’s comfort and dignity. The family owes a deep debt of gratitude for their tireless service.

Relatives and friends may call at the Bryce Funeral Home, Inc.  276 Pawling Avenue Troy on Monday, December 1, 2025 from 3-6 PM.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated Tuesday at 10:30 AM at the Sacred Heart Church 475 Pawling Avenue Troy with Rev. John Yanas, Pastor.

Interment will be in St. Mary's Cemetery Troy. In lieu of flowers contributions may be made in memory of Mary Kay Blake to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital 501 St. Jude Place Memphis, TN 38105 or Alzheimer's Association 225 N. Michigan Ave., Fl. 17 Chicago, IL 60601. To sign the guest book, light a candle, view the video or for service directions, visit www.brycefh.com                               

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