Edna A. Malyack

Edna Antionette Malyack, age 61, of Wayne passed Thursday June 29th, 2023, with the comfort of family by her side.

On June 13, 1962, Edna was born in Msida, Malta to Stella Runza and was adopted by John and Esther Galea in Manhattan, New York. Interestingly, the building they lived in was owned by actor Ben Gazzara’s mother who, along with Ben sometimes, would babysit for her.  The family then bought a house in Astoria, Queens, where Edna ultimately graduated from Mater Christi H.S. in the Class of 1980.  She took on many jobs, including McDonald’s, Citibank, Apple Bank, Swingline, and the Bibb Company ultimately completing her Secretarial Degree from Drake Business School in 1987.

Edna met the love of her life, Christopher, briefly after high school in a bowling alley (she became a very good bowler, incidentally.) . They immediately fell in love and were married on July 28th, 1990 at Saint Francis Roman Catholic Church in Astoria, Queens, New York with a reception at Roslyn Country Club. They honeymooned in the Poconos, Pennsylvania, at Cove Haven where they won a couples billiards competition and spent their time relaxing together at the resort. They enjoyed a loving and devoted marriage of 33 years.

An industrious and relentless worker, she took on second jobs many times throughout her working history.  Edna worked as a waitress at Uno’s, and did home typing for an insurance company while working these other positions.   Upon the birth of her first child, Colette, in 1994 she switched her career trajectory to homemaker with the intention of focusing on raising her children and caring for her mother-in-law. She gave birth to a second child, Joseph, in 1997.  When she did return to working part-time she drew her attention to jobs in the community ranging from bowling alley assistant to school bus driver. Her final position before being placed on disability was at Jordan Transportation.

Edna was loving, caring, and devoted to her family and closest friends. Without hesitation she would provide support to those nearest and dearest to her. She was a great cook, world traveler, and a jack of all trades willing to participate in any hobby or activity presented to her. Without fear Edna would challenge herself and others to grow and take advantage of every opportunity, no matter how frightening. Her personality and presence brought a brightness to every family outing and friendly get together.

As mentioned before, Edna and Chris’ marriage was blessed with two children; Colette and Joseph. Edna was a devoted and compassionate mother. Always wanting the best for her children and unafraid to fight for them no matter the personal cost. She left a mark on the lives of all who met her. Her immeasurable strength in the face of hardships and positive outlook in the worst scenarios is a lasting inspiration to all.

She is survived by her husband, Christopher, her daughter Colette, son-in-law John Paul, son Joseph, future daughter-in-law Abbey, mother-in-law Yvonne, and countless friends and other relatives.

 In lieu of flowers, memorial donations to the National Scleroderma Foundation, 300 Rosewood Dr., Suite 105, Danvers, MA 01923, or the Pulmonary Hypertension Association, 8401 Colesville Rd, Suite 200, Silver Spring, MD 20910 would be greatly appreciated.