Mary Finlay Rickert

Mary Finlay Rickert, 83, of Wilmington, passed away on Friday, January 13, 2017, surrounded by three generations of her loving family. Mary was born in New York City to Bridget (Brick) Finlay of County Kerry, Ireland and Edward Finlay of County Offaly, Ireland. After losing her mother at a young age she was raised by the nuns at St. Michael’s Orphanage on Staten Island, of whom she often spoke fondly.

Mary was a thoughtful and generous friend, an exceptional hostess, an avid bridge player, and shopper extraordinaire, but she shone most brightly in her roles of wife, mother, grandmother and great grandmother. She treasured times with family at her home in Bethany Beach. As a mother, Mary attended countless sporting events, swim meets and dance competitions. She hosted “surprise” 5th birthday parties for each of her ten beloved grandchildren and proudly attended their school concerts, plays, ceremonies, and sporting events. To celebrate their 50th wedding anniversary, Mary and Bob travelled to Ireland with all their children and their children’s families, creating innumerable memories. Her gentle and loving presence will be sorely missed by her family and friends.

Mary was predeceased by Bob, her beloved husband of nearly 56 years and her sisters Ann and Patricia (Jeannie). She is survived by her son, Mike Rickert and his wife, Susan; daughters Bette Talley and her husband, Mike; Mary Barlow and her husband, Dwayne, Tricia Hudson and her husband, Mike; ten devoted grandchildren who cherished their Mommom: Matthew Talley and his wife Kirsten, Andy Talley, Daniel, Katie and Jack Marshall, Amanda and Tim Rickert, Phillip, Rachel and Abigail Hudson; great granddaughter Helen Talley; her sister, Elizabeth Walsh; and many nieces and nephews.