Obituary of Mary "Polly" M. Lombardo

Mary Margaret Lombardo, nee Gaskin, affectionately known as Polly, passed away on July 9, 2024, at Inspira Hospital in Vineland, New Jersey, at the age of 91. Born on April 19, 1933, in Chestnut Hill, Pennsylvania, she dedicated her life to nurturing and caring for others, as a registered nurse, a beloved family member, and a devoted friend. Mary was a graduate of St. Francis de Sales School in Richmond, Virginia and Cumberland County Community College in Vineland, New Jersey. Mary's early career included roles at Bell Telephone, Stern's Furniture, and Lit Brothers. After marrying, she supported her husband in running the James D. Lombardo Scrap Metal business in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. Mary's profound empathy and compassion led her to a fulfilling career in nursing, working at institutions such as Newcomb Hospital, Bishop McCarthy Center, and Bayside State Prison, where she retired as a Nursing Supervisor. Mary then went on to work as a surveillance officer at Harrah's Casino until her final retirement. A devout individual, Mary's spiritual journey took her from her Catholic roots through her adult life as a member of the Jehovah's Witnesses, and later to Life on the Vine Fellowship and Living Faith Alliance Church. Mary's life was marked by her commitment to social justice, having been actively involved in the Civil Rights Movement and following Dr. Martin Luther King with the Student Non-Violent Coordinating Committee. She cherished traveling, especially to St. Thomas and the islands, and enjoyed her later years visiting casinos and crafting at the Millville Senior Center with her best friends. Mary is survived by her son, Roy K. Byrd, Sr. (Darlene M.); special daughters Carmen E. Ragsdale and Darlene Byrd; grandchildren Rochelle, Kimberly, Roy (Jennifer), Celena (Jaymar), Jessica, and Ronald; great-grandchildren Durand, Dyondre (Yolanda), Durelle (DiAisha), Dozier, Dahmir, Kenyatta, Raishe, her namesake Mary Margaret, Achilles, Aaron, Yazmeen, Zephan Jaymes, Celeste, Arielle, Aubree, Alyssa, and great-great-grandchild, Kasen. She was predeceased by her parents Frank and Irene (Thomas) Gaskin, her aunt and uncle Katherine (Thomas) and Henry Brooks, her husband James D. Lombardo, son James F. Byrd, best friends Monica Milbourne, Judith Krezinski, and goddaughter Ruth Knox (Cousin Tudi). A memorial service will be held at 11:00 A.M. on August 3rd, 2024, at Life on the Vine Fellowship, 427 South Spring Road, Vineland, NJ, 08361. Mary's legacy of love, care, and resilience will forever be cherished and remembered by all who knew her. Interment will be held privately. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the International Fellowship of Christians and Jews (ifcj.org). ARRANGEMENTS are under the supervision of Rone Funeral Service, 1110 East Chestnut Avenue, Vineland, NJ 08360 To send online condolences please visit our website at www.RONEFUNERALSERVICE.com