Mary T. Samanka

Mary Samanka, a proud daughter of Gerritsen Beach, Brooklyn, and the unbreakable matriarch of her family, passed away at her home on Staten Island on January 29th, 2026, at the age of 60. Though she had fought a long and courageous battle with Kidney Disease, her passing was sudden following a cardiac event—a final testament to a heart that had given so much to so many. Mary was a woman of profound faith and a "family glue" whose strength was like no other. 

She began her professional journey in the finance industry, but her true legacy was defined by her transition into healthcare as a Nurse Technician. She possessed a spirit built for caregiving; even after she went out on disability, due to an illness, to raise her son, Jonathon Samanka. She never stopped serving those she loved. She spent her years in a beautiful, selfless balance, nurturing her son while simultaneously providing dedicated, tender care for her own parents John Murphy and Betty Murphy in their later years. 

She was the steady bridge between generations, the sister who kept her four brothers connected, and the unwavering partner and anchor to her husband, Michael. Above all else, her greatest mission in life was to keep her family together, ensuring that the bonds of home remained strong and that no one ever had to face life’s challenges alone. 

To know her was to know a woman of grit and grace. She lived her life with a "family first" compass, proving that the greatest work one can do is to hold their loved ones close. She has completed her final shift and has been called home to her parents, leaving behind a family that is forever strengthened by her love. 

She is survived by her husband, Michael; her son, Jonathon; and her faithful Chocolate Labradoodle, Bailey. She is also survived by her four brothers and their wives, John and Diane Murphy, Edward Murphy, William and Maureen Murphy and Mike Murphy. 

She also leaves behind a legacy of love in her many cherished nieces and nephews, who will always remember their aunt as the heart and soul of the family.