Marie W. Layer
Marie Louise Waterbury Layer passed away suddenly at Cayuga Medical Center on October 8, 2015 due to complications from leukemia. She was a resident at Kendal of Ithaca and lived all of her adult life in the Ithaca area. Marie was born in Oswego, NY, on March 18, 1929 to Edwin M. Waterbury and Marie Jenkins Waterbury. She was a 1949 graduate of Green Mountain College and a 1951 graduate of Cornell University in Human Ecology. On August 2, 1952 she married John W. Layer, a graduate of Cornell's Agricultural Engineering class of 1951. Marie worked at Pennsylvania Power and Light and Long Island Lighting as a Home Economist. She then worked for Hines-Park Foods where she was the dessert tester for The Dessert Book.
When Marie was only 40, her husband was diagnosed with ALS. She took the family reigns, caring for John at home for as long as possible. She was a rock of strength for her two children, Kathy and Chris, during that difficult time and throughout her life. Her courage, deep faith in Christ, and ability to look honestly at the dark times and find hope are a testament to the amazing person she was. Her children are forever grateful for their mother's steadfast love, selfless courage and abiding humor and joy.
Returning to work, Marie rose through the ranks of Tompkins County Cooperative Extension to become the Director of the Expanded Food and Nutrition Education Program. She enjoyed her 20-year career and made a significant impact in the lives of low-income families and pregnant teens needing nutritional information and support.
Right until her death, Marie mentored and encouraged those around her with her wisdom and zest for life. She had a special bond with many of her Kendal caregivers. Her loss leaves a deep void but also may wonderful memories for those who loved her most. She is survived by her children Katherine Layer Kraines (Jeffrey) of Simsbury, CT and John Christian Layer (Holly) of E. Aurora, NY, six grandchildren and two great grandchildren.
A family memorial will be held in the spring in Oswego, NY. Friends are invited to attend a celebration of Marie's life at Kendal of Ithaca, 2230 N. Triphammer Rd., on Saturday, Dec. 12, 2015 from 2 to 4 p.m. In lieu of flowers, donations can be sent to Loaves & Fishes of Tompkins County, 210 N. Cayuga St., Ithaca, NY 14850 or to the charity of one's choice. Bangs Funeral home is assisting the family.
SERVICES Memorial Service
Saturday, December 12, 2015 2:00 PM - 4:00 PM
Kendal at Ithaca 2230 N. Triphammer Rd. Ithaca, NY 14850
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