Obituary of Mary Cash LaRosa

Mary Cash LaRosa passed away, January 22, 2026 at Good Shepherd Hospice, Rockville Centre. Mary was born in Seneca Falls, NY on November 21, 1946. She grew up in Flushing and raised her children in East Meadow. Later she moved to Mineola where she devotedly cared for her mother after her father’s passing.

Mary, Jim and Sheila spent their childhood summers in Seneca Falls with their maternal grandparents, Frank and Mary Ryan. They lived a child’s summer dream being spoiled endlessly by their grandparents, aunts and uncles. They swam, fished, played ball, went to the local church fair and ate too much candy and ice cream. The memories of those loving relatives and summers are imprinted on their hearts and minds. 

As Mary and Jim got older, they would go to the various clubs in Queens and on Long Island. They both loved to dance and they were safe dates for each other. Mary’s love of dancing never stopped. She even vacuumed her apartment dancing with Elvis’s music blaring!

Mary went to the high school of Art and Design where her artistic abilities were encouraged and grew. She later worked in NYC for Lowenstein, a textile company where she worked with textiles, color and design.

Mary had an impressive vegetable garden in East Meadow. She supplied her neighbors and coworkers with zucchini, tomatoes and hot peppers! 

Mary enjoyed the outdoors and exercise. She worked many years in local fitness clubs, teaching classes and managing the front desk. Her strong body and welcoming friendliness were perfect for those positions!

Mary became a proficient first mate boating the Great South Bay with her dear, devoted friend and companion, Fred Ciliotta. Together they had fun!! Boating, dancing and traveling to Florida, they were always happy with their easy-going relationship. Their friendship and love for one another spanned over 25 years.

Mary’s greatest source of joy and pride was with her children Candace and Paul along with her grandchildren, Paul, Bridget and Vincent. Mary always said her kids were smart, independent, hard-working and able to take care of themselves. When your children and grandchildren grow up and you see those qualities in them, you experience a sense of peace. Mary experienced that.

We will all miss our free spirited, kind, fun loving Mary. We are all Blessed because she was Ours.  We love you Mary, always.

Mary was predeceased by her parents, Harold and Elizabeth (Betty) Cash. She is survived by her children and grandchildren; Candace and Joe Averso (Paul and Vincent), Paul LaRosa and Colleen Kearny (Bridget). She is survived by her brother Jim Cash (Margie) and sister Sheila Diamond. She is survived by many loving nieces, nephews and friends.

Mary is survived by her loving friend and companion, Fred Ciliotta and his family; Anthony and Mima (Joey and Valentina), Freddy and Danielle (Julianna), Maria and Rob (Robert, Christina and Daniella).

 

Donations in Mary’s memory may be made to

Good Shepherd Hospice at Mercy Hospital in Rockville Centre.

https://www.catholichealthli.org/good-shepherd-hospice/ways-give?campaign=527069