Obituary of Mary E. Pichey

Mary Elizabeth (Drago) Pichey, a retired factory worker and homemaker passed away peacefully with family at her side on Friday, November 6, 2015 at Odd Fellow and Rebekah Nursing Home. She was 97 years old. Born January 19, 1918 in Woodside, Louisiana, she was the daughter of Joseph and Sarah (Danna) Drago. Her family moved from the South to Lockport in 1923, where Mary attended the Lockport Public Schools. After several initial factory jobs, she began a longtime tenure at the former Norton Laboratories in 1936, where she spent many years as a quality control inspector. She retired in 1980 after 44 years of service. On October 28, 1939, Mary married Paul Emile Pichey at St. Joseph's Church, where she was also a member for many years. Mr. Pichey predeceased her on October 28, 1997, on the occasion of their 58th wedding anniversary. Mrs. Pichey was in many ways a modern working woman, working a full-time job for over 40 years, raising her son Paul, cooking, cleaning and properly maintaining her home for nearly her entire life. Her wonderful Italian cooking and other culinary delights were not to be missed. She also enjoyed gardening and interior decorating. After 58 years as a homeowner, Mrs. Pichey moved to the Briarwood Manor Assisted Living Facility in 2011. She moved to Odd Fellows in May, 2015. Mrs. Pichey is survived by her son Paul (Mary) Pichey, her sisters Corinne Alongi of North Tonawanda and Bessie (Ronald) Patnode of Panama City, Florida. She is also survived by several nieces and nephews. Along with her husband, she was also predeceased by her sister, Frances Drago and her brother, Angelo Drago. Friends may call Tuesday 2-4 and 7-9 PM in Prudden and Kandt Funeral Home, 242 Genesee Street, Lockport, where prayers will be offered Wednesday morning at 9:30 AM, followed immediately by a Mass of Christian Burial, to be celebrated at 10 AM at All Saints Parish Oratory, 391 Market Street, Lockport. Entombment will be in Glenwood Cemetery. Online Condolences at www.pruddenandkandt.com.