Mary J. (Adamczyk) Rakiec, 96, of East Haven passed away peacefully on October 10, 2018 at Apple Rehab Laurel Woods with her family by her side. Born in New Haven on September 22, 1922, Mary was the daughter of the late Antonio and Frances (Kaminga) Adamczyk. She was a longtime resident of New Haven, living in Westville and Morris Cove for most of her life. Mary was a devout Catholic and proud member of St. Bernadette's Parish. She worked for the US Postal Service for 25 years, and after her retirement lived out her passion for fashion as an associate at TJ Maxx (since coined 'TJ Mary's') in East Haven. Mary always put her family first and will be remembered as the best cook and baker a family could have, as she hosted every holiday celebration. Her love for the Rhode Island shore and family gatherings in Westerly became a passion that has been passed down to three generations, who still meet at the beach to carry out her tradition. Mary is survived by her children Frank Rakiec Jr. (MaryAnn Monaco) of New Haven, Paula O'Mara of East Haven, Barbara Gallo and her husband Chief Leonard of North Haven, Emily Novak of Guilford, and Daniel Rakiec and his wife Orsola of North Haven. She was predeceased by her son Stephen Rakiec, son-in-law Steven Novak, and beloved granddaughter Christine Gallo. She is also survived by her siblings Carol Lyon of East Haven, Helen Farace of Naples, FL, and Frances Chapman of Bethany. Predeceased by siblings Edward Adamczyk and Amelia Gorman. She leaves behind 11 grandchildren, eight great-grandchildren and many nieces and nephews. Relatives and friends may visit with her family on Sunday, October 14th from 4:00 to 7:00PM at BEECHER & BENNETT FUNERAL HOME, 2300 Whitney Ave., Hamden. Her funeral will be held on Monday October 15th at 9:00AM from the funeral home with her Mass of Christian Burial celebrated at 10:00AM at St. Stanislaus Church, New Haven. Burial will follow in All Saints Cemetery, North Haven. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations in Mary's name may be made to the CT Food Bank, 2 Research Parkway, Wallingford, CT 06492, or to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105. To share a condolence with Mary's family, please visit www.beecherandbennett.com.