Obituary of Ann M. Brzezinski

Ann M. Brzezinski (McCracken) of Massapequa, NY entered eternal life on March 20, 2020. Born in Mineola, NY on April 18th, 1929 to Margaret V. and Clarence McCracken, she was one of six children. Married to George Brzezinski for 39 years until his passing in 2000, about whom she often simply remarked “I had the best!”. Incredibly devoted Mom to three children, Jean (Steve) Graff of Southington, CT, George (Denise) Brzezinski of Mt. Lebanon, PA; and Paul (Therese)Brzezinski of Wantagh NY. She adored her six grandchildren; Kelly, Megan, Evan, Alexa, Colin and Nicholas. Predeceased by her parents and her siblings Alfred (June), Ernest (Agnes), Dick, Margaret, and Kathleen (Joseph). Ann is also survived by nine nieces and nephews. A true child of the depression, she always said “We never knew we were poor”. Although difficult times, she only talked of a joy filled childhood. A gifted athlete, she played on a traveling softball team in her 20’s and taught her son to play baseball. She loved watching tennis and baseball, and always rooted for the better sportsperson. She loved to travel and lived briefly in Hawaii with her Aunt Betty and Uncle Gene. When she was 20, her mother passed away and she assisted in raising her younger brother Dick. Ann ensured her mother’s life was remembered by passing along her stories, recipes and love. A kind, generous person with a deep Catholic faith, she was a member of Maria Regina Parish; although she was an active parishioner for many years at St. William the Abbott. She volunteered for countless activities, her favorite running the “attic treasures” at the annual Christmas Fair. A longtime member of the Ursuline Guild, which supported the nuns that taught in the elementary school. For years she volunteered in support of Momma’s House, a home for young Mothers. She had a quick Irish wit that brought a smile to all. In her late 80’s upon hearing from the doctor that she needed to gain weight, she exclaimed “I only gained weight three times in my life and I named them Jean, George and Paul”, Whether it be a teenage grandchild, an elderly nun or her compassionate doctors she knew how to “get them laughing”. Due to the restrictions in place from the pandemic, a memorial mass will be held at a later date. Arrangements by William E Law Funeral Services of Massapequa NY. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Mommas House 1857 Wantagh Avenue Wantagh, NY 11793 Or McCracken Family Scholarship C/O University of the Incarnate Word Office of Development 4301 Broadway, Box #317 San Antonio, TX 78209-6397