It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Mary Walinsky (née Cook) of Fairton, on July 26, 2026. Mary was born on March 13, 1937, to Sarah Cook (née Huguley) and Charles Cook. She grew up in Miami, FL, and in young adulthood, she lived in Macon, GA. She eventually relocated from Georgia to South Jersey, finding a peaceful new chapter of her life closer to siblings and their children. It was in a dance school in this area that she met her future husband, Joseph Walinsky (1918-1999). They settled in Fairton, where Mary tended to their garden and to the beautiful orchids that they grew in their greenhouse.

Mary was a tireless worker, both at home, where she helped Joe with their business, Shore View Refrigeration, as well as at the Bridgeton Housing Authority, where she worked for over a decade and was very helpful to its many residents. After retirement, Mary served as a volunteer for Meals on Wheels, where she worked side by side with her sister, Virginia, at Millville's 2nd Street High Rise apartments.

Mary enjoyed dancing and was often known to break into a two-step at picnics. She was also an avid walker, covering several miles each day. Such activities kept her slim, despite her favorite meals of pizza and waffles. Her other activities included caring for her cat, Sweetie, visiting yard sales, and baking - her famous carrot cakes will be missed by everyone who had the opportunity to enjoy them.

Mary was predeceased by her siblings, Edward Cook (and his wife Joyce), of Kissimmee, FL, and Charles Cooke (and his wife Ruth), of Millville, NJ. She is survived by her sister Virginia Smith of Millville, her stepson Steven of Vineland, her stepdaughter Elaine of Georgia, and her many nieces and nephews.

A private ceremony will be held by family and friends.