Mary E. Falta

Mary Elizabeth "Betty" Falta (Gregory) Obituary

It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of our mother, Mary "Betty" Falta of Fort Ann who passed away on January 7, 2025 at the age of 78. She was a beloved daughter, mother, grandmother, mimi, sister and friend.

Betty was born on January 26, 1946 in Tarrytown, New York. She was the daughter of the late Laura and Walter Gregory. She later moved her family to Whitehall, NY.

Betty graduated from Sleepy Hollow High School. She later became a CNA. Years later she earned her Administrative Assistant and Business Degree from Adirondack Community College.  She found great joy in her 17 year career at Middlebury College, cherishing the friendships she formed with her colleagues and where she retired.

Cooking was Betty's love language, and she delighted in preparing meals for family and friends.  Her apricot chicken and lasagna were legendary, bringing comfort and joy to those she loved.  She was also a fierce competitor when it came to games, making cherished memories with her family and friends playing BINGO, Yahtzee, Uno, and Jenga.

A devoted mother and grandmother, Betty is survived by her daughters, Darleen McCane (Tim Hack) and Jo Ann Falta (Alphonse Lambert). She was the proud  grandmother of Hunter McCane (Jordan Zenner), Aiden Lambert, and Emerick Falta. She is also survived by Eduardo Zavala, the husband of her late daughter-in-law, Emmy Falta, whose children, Rafael and Juliette, became Betty's grandchildren through marriage. Additionally, she is survived by many nieces and nephews, her lifelong best friend since the age of seven, Martha New; her adopted daughter, Tammy Rooke (Stanley); her beloved dog, Nugget; and her brother, Walter.

Betty was predeceased by her parents, Walter and Laura Gregory; her siblings, Tommy, Patty, Joey, and Johnny; her son, Wayne Falta, and his wife, Emmy Falta; as well as her son-in-law, Dan McCane. She also mourned the loss of her beloved Shih Tzu, Ming Li.

Betty's vibrant spirit, sharp wit, and boundless love will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing her. Her legacy of kindness, laughter, and delicious meals will live on in the hearts of her family and friends.

The family would like to express their deep appreciation for the love and care Betty received in her final weeks. She was surrounded by truly great friends and family who provided so much comfort and support during that time.

A memorial service will be held from 3-6pm on Wednesday, January 15, 2025, at the Jillson Funeral Home, 46 Williams St, Whitehall, NY 12887.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Mary E. Falta, please visit our floral store.