Mary Anne Aussem, 95, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, September 10, at Arbor Terrace in Morris Plains, where she had made her home for the past four years.

Born in Kearny in 1930, Mary grew up in a loving family as the daughter of the late Michael and Meg Johnston. She spent many years in Rutherford before settling in Basking Ridge in 1977. Later in life, she cherished 15 happy years in the Somerset Run community before moving to Arbor Terrace in 2021.

Mary’s life was rich with love, laughter, and devotion to family. In 1953, she married the love of her life, Stuart (“Stu”), and together they built a beautiful family. Their partnership took them on adventures both near and far, including a memorable time living abroad in Casablanca. After Stu’s passing in 1996 from Alzheimer’s disease, Mary carried forward with grace and resilience, always keeping his memory alive.

Alongside raising her children, Mary held administrative positions in a variety of settings—from Fairleigh Dickinson University in Rutherford to AT&T in Basking Ridge—always bringing her sharp mind and kind spirit to her work. She also gave generously of her time as a volunteer with the Bonafides in Basking Ridge, raising funds for local charities that supported adults and children with special needs and other meaningful causes.

Family was at the center of Mary’s world. She is survived by her children: Ed Aussem and his wife Pat of Morristown, and their children Ryan, his wife Hunter and their daughter Jane of New York City, and Sean of Morristown; Scott Aussem and his wife Debbie, and their children Melissa, her husband  Art and their daughter Reagan, Christine and her sons Mason and Fletcher, and Caleb; and Lee Aussem of Somerville. Mary was predeceased by her beloved sons Gary (1983) and Billy (2007). She knew unimaginable loss, yet carried Gary, Billy and Stu with her always, teaching those around her how to love fiercely and endure gently.

She was also deeply connected to her extended family. Mary was predeceased by her siblings Richard and Frank Johnston and her beloved sister Rosaleen. She is survived by her sister Claire Kappock of Toms River, as well as many cousins, nieces, and nephews who brought her great joy.

Mary will be remembered for her warmth, quiet strength, and the unconditional love she showed her family. Her legacy lives on in the lives she touched and the example she set of grace, resilience, and devotion.September 10, at Arbor Terra

A Mass of Christian burial will be held on Wednesday, May 28 at 11:00AM at St. James Church in Basking Ridge, with burial to follow at Somerset Hills Memorial Park, also in Basking Ridge.   Family and friends will be received in the chapel prior to the funeral liturgy. 

Arrangements are through Gallaway and Crane Funeral Home in Basking Ridge (https://gcfuneralhome.com). Family and friends are invited to a celebration of  Mary’s life at the Basking Ridge Country Club following the cemetery service.  

In lieu of flowers, the family has requested donations be made to the Alzheimers Association of New Jersey at   https://events.alz.org/fundraisers/edwardaussem/mary-anne-aussem