Obituary of Raylene Vics

Raylene “Renie” Vics, 81, passed away Monday, January 30th, 2017, from complications of Alzheimer’s Disease. Born April 17th, 1935, in Philadelphia, PA, Renie was the older sister of Jeffrey Shear and the only daughter of Rose and Norman Shear. Renie was the widow of Jesse Vics, with whom she celebrated 56 years of marriage. Jesse passed away on July 16, 2014. She is survived by her four children, Howard, Michele, David and Tracy Vics; grandchildren, Joshua, Gabriel, Keturah and Carson Vics; David’s wife Anne, as well as numerous nieces and nephews. Renie was a graduate of Russell Sage College where she obtained her Masters degree in Nursing. Her undergraduate degree was with honors from Temple University in Philadelphia, PA. Renie retired from Berkshire Community College where she served as a Nursing Program Director of the LPN program. Renie worked until her retirement in 1994. She and Jesse retired to Duluth, Ga., where they lived until 2011, after which they moved to Columbus, Ohio to live with their son David and daughter-in-law Anne. She was much admired and respected for her volunteer work with Kiwanis, the American Legion, the Special Olympics, the Anne Frank Museum in Atlanta, among many, many other volunteer organizations like Meals on Wheels and as an election poll worker. She was the first woman president of the Colonie Kiwanis and was recognized for pioneering the President’s role for women. In addition, Renie was instrumental in founding the Gwinnett Sentinels of Freedom, a service organization that assists disabled veterans. She also worked to help raise funds for the Alzheimer's Association. Renie was an inspiration and positive role model as a wife, mother, medical professional, mentor, teacher and friend. Her love and heart was the constant thread that bound her family together and her nurturing compassion was only eclipsed by her love for her immediate and extended family. A memorial service will be held 10 a.m. Sunday February 12, 2017 at Congregation Berith Sholom Synagogue, 167 3rd Street, Troy, NY with a reception immediately following at the home of Howard Vics in Schenectady, New York. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made in her name to the Alzheimer’s Association. To leave a condolence message for the family, please do so at www.levinememorialchapel.com