On February 17, 2025, Mary “Cookie” L. Balme passed away peacefully with her family by her side. Mary was born on May 16, 1957, to Charles and Pauline (Petti) Scalise and raised in East Rochester. She was predeceased by her father. Mary graduated from East Rochester High School in 1975 and went on to earn her Associates Degree from SUNY Canton in 1977, her Bachelor of Arts Degree from SUNY Potsdam in 1979, and her Master of Science in Education from Elmira College in 1985.

Mary went on to become a teacher, first in Waverly, NY, teaching reading and second grade and then in Fairport where she eventually transitioned into Administration. Mary retired from Monroe 1 BOCES in June of 2012 as Assistant Superintendent for Instructional Support Services. 

Not one to sit idly by Mary reentered the work force 3 years later in April 2015 accepting the position of President/CEO of Rochester Hearing and Speech. Mary retired 6 years later, having decided to spend more time with her family and enjoying her Seneca Lake House and her Florida Condo.

Mary is survived by her husband, Robert (Chip), of 43 years, her mother, Pauline, her son, Robert C (Kevin Balme), daughter, Lisa (James Fletcher), two grandchildren, James and Charlotte, numerous cousins, a sister, niece and nephew, many friends and her AGO Sorority Sisters.

Mary will be remembered for her unwavering commitment to family and friends and her profound love of her children and grandchildren.

Calling hours will be Monday, February 24 from 4:00pm to 7:00pm at Harloff Funeral Home, 803 S. Washington St. East Rochester NY.  

Memorial Mass will be Tuesday, February 25 at 10:00am at St. Jerome’s Church, 207 Garfield St. East Rochester, NY, and will be followed by a Celebration of Life at Midvale Country Club, 2387 Baird Rd. Penfield NY.  

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in her name to the Humane Society of Greater Rochester’s Lollypop Farm www.lollypop.org honoring her deep love of her pets.