Magdalene Cienkowski Merritt

Magdalene Cienkowski Merritt, 92, of Harpersfield, NY passed away peacefully on February 2, 2026, after a brief illness. She was welcomed home into the loving arms of her Lord and joyfully reunited with the children she had longed for, leaving this world surrounded by a legacy of love, faith, and devotion.

Magdalene lived a life rooted in compassion, strength, and unwavering dedication to her family. She was the kind of woman whose presence made everything feel steadier, warmer, and more whole. As a mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother, she gave endlessly of herself—through quiet sacrifices, steadfast prayers, and a love that asked for nothing in return. Her faith guided her life, and her example will continue to guide those who were blessed to know her.

She was predeceased by her first husband, Chester Cienkowski; her beloved children, Chester Cienkowski Jr. and Kathleen Armstrong; and her second husband, James Merritt. Though her losses were many, Magdalene carried them with grace, holding tight to hope and faith until the end.

She is survived by her cherished grandchildren: Rebecca Traver (Dakota), Katie Card (Robert), Chester Cienkowski III, and Laura Cienkowski (Sam), each of whom was a source of immense pride and joy. She also leaves behind her treasured great-grandchildren, Hailey, Maia, and Felix, whose lives are forever touched by her love. Magdalene is additionally survived by her daughter-in-law, Frances, and her sons-in-law, Alexander and James, all of whom she loved as her own.

Though our hearts ache in her absence, we take comfort in knowing that Magdalene’s earthly journey has ended and her eternal peace has begun. Her love will live on in family traditions, shared memories, and the countless lives she shaped simply by being herself.

The family will receive friends on Friday, February 13th from 6:00pm - 8:00pm at Whitting Funeral Home, 300 Glen Cove Ave, Glen Head. Service with Rev. Susan Converse will be on Saturday February 14th at 11am at the Reformed Church of Locust Valley with committal services immediately following at Locust Valley Cemetery.

She will be deeply missed, forever loved, and never forgotten.