Marsha A. Descartes

Dr. Marsha A. Descartes of Berne passed away on June 5, 2026 after a long illness. She was born in Buffalo on July 30, 1946, the second child of Samuel and Jeanette Alt. Marsha graduated from the University of Buffalo with a Bachelor's degree in English literature and earned a Master's degree and a PhD in Social Work from the University of Albany. She worked for 28 years for Albany County Children and Family Services. In addition Marsha taught courses in Social Work at the University of Albany, Russell Sage College, Hudson Valley Community College, and most recently, Empire State University. Marsha also worked for 20 years for Cornell University Farm Net. Marsha had a strong interest in supporting community activity and was an active member of the Berne Library for many years.

Marsha enjoyed working and living on a farm, gardening, cooking, word puzzles, book clubs, and most of all, spending time with her family. She is survived by her loving and beloved family: her husband, Dr. Rene Descartes; her three daughters, Dr. Lara Descartes of London, Ontario, Anna Cohen of Clifton, New Jersey, and Jan Descartes of Brooklyn, New York; in addition to her cherished grandchildren, Vern Descartes and Riley Cohen, and sons-in-law, Ronen Cohen and Grey Cohen. Marsha's family and friends will miss her wit, thoughtfulness, generosity, fighting spirit, and support.

The family would welcome donations made in Marsha's name to the Berne Fire Department or the Berne Public Library.