Mary Therese VerBryck

Mary Therese VerBryck, born on March 9, 1935, in Binghamton, New York, passed away peacefully on April 20, 2025, in Lake St. Louis, Missouri. She was surrounded by her beloved husband Clyde and family during her final days, demonstrating the deep connections she cherished throughout her life.

Mary dedicated her professional life to nursing, serving as the In-service director at the Willow Point Nursing Home in Vestal, New York, until her retirement in 1990. A proud graduate of St. Joseph's School of Nursing in Elmira, NY, her commitment to care and compassion extended beyond her career and into every interaction with family and friends.

Throughout her life, Mary was an adventurer at heart, with a passion for travel and exploration. Together with Clyde, her husband of 69 years, she created countless memories on her journeys. Their remarkable month-long road trip across the United States in 1972 became a cherished story, often likened to a scene from "National Lampoon's Family Vacation." As their children grew, Mary and Clyde ventured beyond the borders of the U.S., exploring far-off places including Europe, the Middle East, the Caribbean, Hawaii, and Alaska. They also enjoyed the winter months as snowbirds, finding warmth in South Carolina and Florida.

Mary was not only devoted to her family but was also known for her vibrant personality. She never wanted to miss an event or family gathering, always striving to be a pillar of support and joy for her loved ones. Her favorite response to life's ups and downs, "such is life," reflected her optimistic outlook and acceptance of the world around her.

An avid fan of yard sales and rummage sales, Mary found joy in discovering special treasures that brought her happiness and sparked stories to share with her family. She was also a devout Catholic and actively involved in the St. Vincent de Paul Blessed Sacrament parish in Vestal, NY, which marked one of her proudest achievements.

Mary is survived by her loving husband Clyde VerBryck; son Matthew VerBryck and daughter-in-law Carol; daughter Susan VerBryck; son Mark VerBryck and daughter-in-law Kim; as well as her grandchildren Alisha Slawniak and Pete, Ryan VerBryck and Samantha, Sean VerBryck and Missy, and Justin VerBryck. She was also a proud grandmother of great-grandchildren Greyson, Theodore, Poppy, and Brooks VerBryck. Mary leaves behind many nieces and nephews from both the VerBryck and Valla lineages.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Matthew and Helen Valla; her daughter, Karen VerBryck; as well as her brothers Matthew and Mary Valla, James and Mary Valla, and Donald and Rosaria (Sara) Valla.

A Memorial Mass will be held in her honor on May 17, 2025, at Immaculate Conception Catholic Church (Chapel), located at 7701 State Route N, Dardenne Prairie, MO, with the service beginning at 10:00 AM.

Mary Therese VerBryck will be remembered for her warmth, kindness, and enduring spirit, leaving a legacy of love and joy in the hearts of all who knew her.

In leu of flowers, the family kindly asks that you consider a donation to St Croix Hospice, 3701 North St Peters Pkwy Suite B2 St Peters MO 63376.

An interment will take place at Vestal Hills Memorial Park at a later date.