Mary Joanne Beierle, age 80, of Vero Beach, FL, passed away peacefully on August 21, 2026, following a brief illness. Brave, resilient, and fiercely determined, she faced this last challenge as she faced previous challenges, with strength and grace.

Born to Marie and Clifford Beierle of Centerport, Long Island, Mary was raised in Valley Stream, New York, where she attended high school and developed the strong work ethic, independence, and sense of community that would define her throughout her life.

Mary is survived by her sons, Michael Friscia and his wife, Dawn, and Keith Friscia and his wife, Christina; her grandchildren, Ashley Ashmawi, Mark Friscia, Kayla Friscia, Madison “Maddy” Friscia, and Daniel “Danny” Friscia; her great-grandchildren, Cayden, Ellie, and McKenna; and her brothers, Lenny Beierle and his wife, Betty Ann, and Craig Beierle and his wife, Kathleen. Family remained an important part of her life, and she took great pride in watching the younger generations grow and pursue their own paths.

Mary enjoyed a long and distinguished career in the insurance industry, serving in leadership and professional roles at several agencies on Long Island and later in New York City, where she relocated in the early 2000s. Known for her extensive knowledge of the insurance industry and her unwavering integrity, Mary approached her work with professionalism, diligence, and a strong commitment to her clients, including the work she did with clients following the 9/11 tragedy.

Retirement marked the beginning of a new chapter rather than a slowing down. Determined to pursue her lifelong passion for gardening and design, Mary returned to school and earned a Certificate in Landscape and Floral Design from the New York Botanical Garden. Combining her formal education with years of hands-on experience, she launched her own gardening business in New York City, helping others create beautiful outdoor spaces while sharing her love of horticulture.

While Mary spent many years creating and maintaining gardens, she often said that her grandchildren were her real “garden.” She enjoyed keeping up with Ashley, Mark, Kayla, Maddy, and Danny, and later with her great-grandchildren, Cayden, Ellie, and McKenna. Her New York City home was frequently the setting for family gatherings, particularly her annual Christmas dinner, where family and friends looked forward to her famous Candy Cane Cake.

A woman of deep faith, Mary was a devoted member of the Catholic Church and dedicated more than 15 years of service to Holy Family Roman Catholic Church in New York City. Through her gardening, floral design, and facilities work at both the church and rectory, she left a lasting legacy. Under her care and expertise, the church gardens were transformed into a peaceful, beautiful sanctuary featuring stunning landscaping and tranquil koi ponds.

Mary had a remarkable gift for building community wherever she went. She effortlessly gathered people together, forming lasting friendships and support networks. She often referred to these friends as her “angels,” but those who knew her understood that she was often the angel in their lives, offering encouragement, companionship, and unwavering support.

Service to others was one of Mary’s defining qualities. She gave generously of her time and talents to the communities in which she lived. Among her many volunteer efforts, she was especially proud of her work at a women’s shelter, where she helped provide food, comfort, and respite to women in need.

An avid traveler, Mary explored many countries throughout her life and found particular joy in the beauty and culture of Tahiti and the spiritual significance of Jerusalem. Her curiosity, adventurous spirit, and appreciation for the world’s wonders remained with her throughout her life.

Mary’s legacy lives on in the family she cherished, the communities she enriched, the gardens she nurtured, and the countless lives she touched through her kindness, faith, and generosity. She will be deeply missed and forever remembered.

In accordance with Mary’s wishes, a memorial service celebrating her life will be held at Holy Family Roman Catholic Church in New York City later this fall. Information regarding the date and arrangements will be shared with family and friends in the coming months. Mary will be laid to rest in Martha’s Vineyard, one of her favorite places and a destination that held special meaning to her.

The family requests that, in lieu of flowers or gifts, you remember Mary in your prayers or honor her life through an act of kindness or a donation to the charitable organization of your choice.