Obituary of Mary Ann D'Amico

Mary Ann D'Amico passed away peacefully at home surrounded by her family on December 9, 2024. She was predeceased by her loving parents, John D'Amico and Lucy Lorino D'Amico; her husband, Zalman Finkelstein; her brother, Dr. Paul D'Amico; and her son, Anthony Mitchell. She is survived by her five devoted children: Louise, Angela, John, Anna, and Rosemary Mitchell; her cherished grandchildren: Shoshana, David, John "JR," Anthony (Miranda), and Sean (Pearl); and her four beloved great-grandchildren: Anthony "Tony," Eli, Axel, and Ava. She also leaves behind her dear nieces and nephews: John (Katherine) D'Amico, Lisa (Esteban) Michalowsky, Paul (Christine) D'Amico, Mark (Carmen) D'Amico, and Sara (Claus) Jakob, as well as many treasured great-nieces and nephews. Mary Ann was born on September 24, 1935, in Monticello, N.Y., and graduated from Livingston Manor High School in 1954. In 1957, she earned her Bachelor of Science degree from Marywood College. A dedicated and passionate educator, she taught home economics and typing, leaving a lasting impact on her students. Her career also included roles in the textile industry in New York City and as a telephone operator. Later, she found immense fulfillment working at the Job Corps in Callicoon, N.Y., where she made a difference in the lives of troubled youth. She was a devout Catholic, attending Sunday and daily Mass as long as she was able. Her Bible and her much used Magnificats were kept at her side. She taught the St. Michael prayer to her children when they were young, and they carried it with them ever since. She passed away with her rosary in her hand. Mary Ann was a loving mother, grandmother, and neighbor who brought warmth and joy to everyone around her. She had a talent for teaching cooking and needlework, often sharing her skills with others, and was a haven for the children in her community. Her marble cake and homemade root beer were legendary, and she had a natural gift for listening and connecting with people. Her love for her community was evident in her volunteer work at local food pantries, clothing closets, and through organizations such as Catholic Charities, Habitat for Humanity, and Catholic Worker. She also took joy in gardening for her neighbors, planting trees and flowers that brightened the community. In her free time, Mary Ann found peace gardening with her beloved cat, Mimsi, and cherished her friendships at the Johnson City Senior Center. She loved reading everything as long as it was nonfiction which gave her family the gift of reading. Her kindness, generosity, and unwavering spirit will be deeply missed by all who knew her. Viewing will be Wednesday, December 18, 2024, 4–6 pm, at J.A. McCormack Sons Funeral Home, 141 Main St., Binghamton, N.Y. 13905. A funeral Mass will be offered at 11 am, Thursday, December 19, 2024, at St. James Church, 147 Main St., Johnson City, N.Y., 13790. Burial will be on Friday 20, 2024, St. Aloysius Cemetery, Covered Bridge Rd., Livingston Manor, N.Y., depending on weather.