Marie Rettig

STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. - Native Staten Islander Marie A. Rettig, 59, of Woodbridge, N.J., a loving mother who doted on her son, died Thursday at home.

She was born Marie Sauss in Tottenville and graduated from the former St. Louis Academy in Pleasant Plains. She lived in Tottenville until relocating to Menlo Park, N.J., many years ago. She settled in Woodbridge three years ago.

Ms. Rettig earned her bachelor's degree in psychology and philosophy from Hunter College, Manhattan. Eager to learn, she continued to take various classes, and went on to receive her paralegal certificate.

She worked as a claims examiner for Transatlantic Reinsurance Company, Manhattan.

Ms. Rettig's greatest love, however, was her son, James Michael Rettig.

"Her son Jimmy was the light of her life," said her brother, Charles Sauss.

The funeral service will be tomorrow at 8 p.m. in the Bedell-Pizzo Funeral Home, Tottenville. Arrangements include cremation.

Services: Funeral Service at 8:00 PM Sunday December 11,2011 in the Funeral Home

Visitation: Friends will be received on Sunday December 11,2011 only 2-4 and 7-9 PM

Cemetery: Rosehill Crematory

Location: Bedell-Pizzo Funeral Home