Plan for the Future
Marie Combias, 93, of Summit NJ, passed away peacefully on December 26th, 2024. Marie was born on April 21st, 1931, to Lillian and James Nikas, who immigrated to New York from Greece. Her early childhood was spent in the Bronx, with many summers at Coney Island. When Marie was 11 years old, her family settled in Boonton, NJ.
In Boonton, Marie played piano, sang in the chorus, and was a member of the honors society. She graduated from Boonton High School in 1949 and went on to attend Trenton State Teachers College. After completing her studies, she began working as a first grade teacher in Madison, NJ. Guiding and nurturing children, whether her own or the children of others, would become one of Marie’s lifelong passions.
Marie met her husband, Tony, in 1954 and was married a year later. After living briefly in New Providence, they settled in Summit, NJ where they raised their three children Lorie, John, and Jimmy. Marie was an enthusiastic member of her Summit community. She joined the Summit College Club in 1959, and the Junior League in 1966. She was an ardent and competitive participant in racquet sports at Beacon Hill Club, often serving as the captain of her tennis and paddle teams.
Beginning in 1985, Marie could often be found at Elephant Tales toy store in Downtown Summit, where she worked, and later at the Arboretum where she volunteered and founded the Garden Shop. Marie also found meaning through her volunteer work at Camp Happy Times, a summer camp for children with cancer.
Marie was known by all for her warmth and generosity of spirit. She was a collector, saving and sharing mementos from throughout her life – eventually her vintage clothing collection found a home in the costume hall of Summit High’s theatre department. Her delicious Greek cooking was her calling card. Anyone who entered her home would undoubtedly be well fed, whether they were hungry or not. Many of her friends and neighbors requested cooking lessons, which she happily gave.
Above all else, Marie was a devoted wife, mother, and grandmother. Her love for her family was her guiding force. Marie was a strong and supportive presence in the lives of her family members – she never missed a lacrosse game, hockey tournament, dance recital, swim meet, or birthday. Marie was a nurturer, who gave of herself happily and readily. Her joy and kindness will be remembered by all who knew her.
Marie is survived by her daughter Lorie and her husband Tom; son John and his wife Lilly; son Jimmy; and 8 grandchildren, Brian, Tanner, Christina, Greg, Emily, Alexandra, Christina, and Maria. The family will hold a private service at the Greek Orthodox Church in Westfield, NJ.
