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Mary Celli Obituary
(Chely)
On Tuesday, September 9, 2008 Mary found peace after her fight with breast cancer. She was predeceased by her mother Olga. Mary is survived by her father Robert Chely of Elmira; brothers and sisters-in-law, John C. and Darine Chely, with their son Merrick, of Boulder CO; Jim and Wendy Chely of Elmira; along with her close friends that were by her side this past week. Mary was a friend to all she met. Her talent as a top musician and singer throughout the Southern Tier will be greatly missed. Honoring Mary's wishes there will be no services. If you had the pleasure of seeing Mary perform, that is the memory you should hold in your hearts and minds. Donations in Mary's memory may be directed to Twin Tiers Regional Affiliate of Susan G. Komen for the Cure, P O Box 1306, Elmira NY 14902. Arrangements by McInerny Funeral Home.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Mary Celli
Eric Sturm
September 22, 2024
Bye Mary. All these years later I´ll never forget you. Thank you for wonderful memories.
"Bye Bye Mia, I love you!!!"
October 11, 2008
Balloons sent to the great spirit world
October 11, 2008
Bella with letter and pic of Mia
October 11, 2008
October 11, 2008
Angela Celli
October 11, 2008
Few people really understand the connection the three of us had and now you are with one of them. Give Augie a big hug.
"Dear Mia I really miss you a lot and hope you feel peace in the Great spirit land...that's what I want to say to Mia and I love you very much and wish I could see you."(Bella)-With love Angie and Bella Celli
Lynn Araujo
October 1, 2008
Sorry I missed the Music for Mary.
I would have loved to have seen everyone whose lives were touched by her music and her energy.
Keep the torch burning bright!
Darine Chely
September 30, 2008
My Special Sister in Law, Mary
I want you to know how much you mean to me.
You’ve had strength and courage for your whole family to see.
You showed us all how to handle life's blows.
You took it all in stride, smiled, and said, “That’s how it goes”.
Through all your pain, you never once gave up or complained.
You've had dignity, warmth, and inner beauty that can't be explained.
With all that you were going through, you always thought of others.
You always took time to give of yourself to friends, parents and brothers.
You always had kind thoughts, did good deeds, and showed caring.
You always be well known and loved and have the capacity for sharing.
You need to know how much you mean to those who love you, plus me
Your strength, courage, and beauty are a shining example for all to see.
You’ve carried a heavy burden for quite a long while.
You would not allow us to share any of your pain but always your smile.
You are surely a guardian angel sent from above.
My special Mary, these heartfelt words are for you, from all of us who care, with all our love.
Darine Chely, Cody Laux-Chely and Merrick Chely
Johnny Galvin
September 27, 2008
I too had to meet her , I remember thinking to myself ," I just have to meet her "......and I know now that it wasn't just the desire to " meet a celebrity " and it wasn't just the desire to get the attention of a "mysterious gorgeous woman " . It just happened to be one of the all time greatest things that's ever happened to me . I'm so thankful for her life and thankful that I got to know her, drum for her, and hug her, I love her .... I will honor her !
Peg Purcell
September 26, 2008
Mary was one of a kind. A phenomenal woman. May she be remembered through music and humor. How fortunate I was to call her a friend. Wet Goods and The Rongo truly were a "moment in time".
Steve Messer
September 23, 2008
When I first heard and saw Mary at Goods with Elvira Marphite I knew I had to meet her. We eventually got together and shared some music. She encouraged me to join her at the old Brewery on Second Street. It was my first live gig in Corning. We subsequently played off and on in various configurations for the next several years. I have such wonderful memories of her; with In Congress, our trio featuring Mikey Cripe, and having cinnamon toast with her and Pam at 78W 2nd. She was a one of a kind and I will miss her deeply. My heart goes out to her family and many friends.
jackie wilson
September 19, 2008
Can anyone id the girls in the picture of the Gang on Senior Day?-I know Mary of course. I work at ND and want to put it up in the school on our alumni board. jackie Wilson
Eric Yungstrom
September 19, 2008
Mary was an ever present part of my youth along with the entire Chely family. Fond memories evoke of the old neighborhood between Schornstheimer's Dairy and Wheeler's Grocery where Mary's bassett hound Mike ruled the road, literally! I always looked forward to my short walk down First Street and the adventures at Mary's home. The intoxicating aroma of Mrs. Chely's stuffed peppers cooking in the kitchen led me up the driveway where Mary would be shooting hoops and challenge me to a game of around the world. After soundly whipping me she wouild give me that infectious head bobbing chuckle and grin. I knew Mary on the front side of her life, not as well on the back side. The last time I saw Mary she was singing and playing at Eldridge Park. She was doing what she loved most. I can still hear the Ovation. See ya on the other side Mona. My deepest condolences go out to the Chely family. Mr.Chely,thanks for all the rides to the Mark Twain Golf Course as a kid. Your daughter was a speacial and talented lady. To Mary's brothers John and Jim, please know you are in my thoughts.
Claudia Ames-Cropper
September 18, 2008
I can still see Mary's smile that turned into a grin and those eyes that reflected joy and mischief!
It's so hard to believe she is gone.
Mary always closed her correspondence to me with the words Love and Peace. I pray she has found peace.
I feel she is a free bird now. Whether flying high or perched in a tree, she is singing to the heavens and the earth. I will listen for her.
Mary, you touched so many hearts with your beautiful voice.
love and prayers to the Chely family
Liz Dougherty Pierce
September 17, 2008
Mary was beautiful in every way... her personality, warmth, talent, and great sense of humor. She was an old soul. My image of her will always be a bright face, gorgeous smile, tank top with cross and Italian horn around her neck. That was Mary! We first met at People's Place, our hang out after school, because Mary made it so inviting. We would try on all the clothes and listen to music and just talk and laugh and scheme. The phone would ring and Mary would yell out "Tommy is coming!" in a panic. So we'd all scamper out! Mary created our "40's tunes girl-group singing act" with Rita, Lynn and me. We'd rehearsed at People's Place after hours and sang at local restaurants. It was Acappella and I can still see Mary with her pitch pipe trying to get us in key! What fun and all because of Mary. I will so miss seeing her and hearing her sing. She was a star here - now in Heaven.
For all the fun and great memories... Thanks, Mary, for knowing you.
Prayers and condolences to your family, and all friends
Liz Dougherty Pierce
Karin and Richard Boroff
September 17, 2008
You are with God now Mary and will be missed by us all.
Your cousins, Karin and Richard Boroff
jackie wilson
September 16, 2008
Mary was one of those special people that you just connect with on some level. I did not know her well but we did have a special connection. She was my favorite local female singer. She knew I liked Bonnie Raitt and when I would walk into Barb's on a Sat. she would break into "Love Me Like a Man.' She reminded me of a Jackson Browne quote "So like a fragile little child more than a little lost and wild" I think it was her vulnerability, genuineness ,gentleness and kindness that drew me to her. I can't believe I won't hear her singing again alive. Her rendition of "The Day I Met YOu" (which she wrote) on the In Congress album from CCC in the 70's is hauntingly beautiful. I always looked to see where she was playing. I hope she is at peace. Jackie Wilson
September 16, 2008
Rock on in Heaven, Mary.
Ld
Kim Eveland & Robin Newland
September 16, 2008
We will never forget you performing with Robin and Nancy as "Bull ‘N Arrows". They are wonderful memories we will treasure always.
Pam (Goud) Costantini
September 15, 2008
I have only now been able to come and read all the thoughts of so many who have felt the loss of Mary. But it's good to know that love is the lasting impression that Mary will have on so many hearts. I hope the hole that has been left by her passing will be filled with all the wonderful memories. Love and peace to all that shared in the collage of her life, you all know there will never be another like her.
Marcy
September 15, 2008
My sincere condolences to the Celli family.
It was with great sadness I heard of Mary's passing from this life. I will remember her smile, her sincerety, her absolute love for her music. I am glad to have known her and happy to have the memories. Thank you Mary for showing me that forgiveness really does open one's heart.
Lynn Araujo
September 15, 2008
There was and always will be "something about Mary". Anyone who had the good fortune of knowing her will never forget her mischievous laugh and her soulful singing.
I met Mary back in 1976 when she was working at People's Place and I was working at Harold's on Market street in Corning. We did this Andrews Sisters act for the downtown Merchants. Then, she started singing and playing with Steve P. and Bob and Steve M. (my brother in law). It was a magical time that none of us will ever forget.
year later when I would come to town and see her she would light up and make me feel just like when we were young. Her delightful spirit lives on in all of us.
Love to all, especially her family.
Susie Hilfiger
September 15, 2008
Dear Mary,
Such fun we had at People's Place: and such joy with your music.
I will always remember and rejoice with you.
Love Forever,
Kathleen Finneran Walion
September 15, 2008
In the mid-late 70's Mary was the 'coolest' person I knew. Some of my fondest memories took place at Wet Goods listening to her sing and play with Steve, Bob, Tom, Mike, Howard, Kevin and others. Though I hadn't seen Mary for 26 years her image remains strong in my mind. Her voice and spirit are missed.
Linda Bedford
September 14, 2008
Mary was just an acquaintance of mine for over 20 years. Just recently I got to know Mary well under unfortunate circumstances for us both. I saw her and introduced myself to her at the Falck Cancer Center in Elmira. Mary lectured me on the importance of staying positive during Cancer and if I ever needed anything not to hesitate to call. Mary also showed me that it was okay to be bald even if you are a woman. I saw Mary a total of 3 or 4 times at the Center. She inspired me with her singing voice for many years and in the last three months inspired me with her soothing and encouraging voice. She will forever be a light in my life and an inspiration to me. God has another great angel with him.
Lindy DiPietro (Drake)
September 13, 2008
I can hardly believe that I will no longer be able to go to Horigan's and be enchanted by Mary's voice. I have loved it since our days at OLL and Notre Dame. The music that Mary made was truely magical and the angels in heaven will be amazed!
Love to you Sweet Mary!
Susie (Wahl) Betancourt
September 13, 2008
She was special- "Rock On" Mary. A dear friend to my sister and a joy to my family. We loved her !
Debbie Giddens
September 13, 2008
Mary may be gone from this earth but she will remain in the hearts of all of us who had the joy of knowing her. Heavens orchestra will have a new section added as Mary joins in with her jazzy melody.
Mike Cripe
September 13, 2008
Rest in peace, Mary. God's love to all who mourn.
Paul Titus
September 13, 2008
Jim, Wendy and family: you are in my prayers during this difficult time. Mary is singing still in heaven...God Bless.
Jon, Peter, and Ann Brown
September 12, 2008
Uncle Bob, John and Darine, Jimmy and Wendy,
We have many fond memories of Mary. In this time of loss, our thoughts and prayers are with each one of you.
Love,
Tina Smith
September 12, 2008
Dear Mr. Chely,
John and Jimmy,
My heart is broke... I always tried to call Mary each year when I came home in the summer. This year my mom took ill and I didn't get to see any "old friends". I will miss her and her precious spirit. Please accept my deepest sympathy. Peace,"Fish"
sue and fred mackenzie
September 12, 2008
Take comfort in knowing that now you have a special guardian angel to watch over you.
Veronica Sulkowski
September 12, 2008
I first met Mary in 1995 when she came to Asheville. Mary was such a remarkable musician and had the energy of the sun. She was always bright and shining. She recently came back to the Asheville area with her friend Angie and Bella for the Bele Chere festival and stayed with me. Little did I know it would be the last time that I would see her. She sang her jazzy blues music while she lived in Asheville for almost a decade and played in many venues. She gave so much to our community and never expected anything in return. While she lived here she also provided job coaching for folks and was a personal trainer at the YMCA. Mary will always be in my thoughts. I know that she is watching over us all and is finally at peace. Her passing is our loss but heavens gain.
Carmella Allegretto-Baker
September 12, 2008
Our deepest sympathy to all who loved Mary. The bright light of her spirit will never dim. Even though she has passed on, Mary will forever live in our hearts.
Mary brought so much joy to everyone through her kind and caring heart, and her great love for music.
We know that Mary is now at peace.
We love you.
Carmella Allegretto-Baker & Michael Baker
Jack Milliken
September 12, 2008
When I used to hang out with Jim Chely back in the '70's, we would travel to Wetgoods in Corning, the Rongo in T-Burg or other venue to watch his big sister and her band. I considered her a great artist, and really enjoyed her guitar work and harmonies. I still remember a show at Michael's on Washington Ave and her rendition of "In Memory of Elizabeth Reed". Maybe 30 years ago but made quite a mark on an impressionable kid. Thanx Mona, for sharing your gifts with the rest of us.
Jeanie Cruttenden
September 12, 2008
My heartfelt sympathy to you all. I remember Mary from the "Wetgoods" days and I played basketball with her in the Elmira women's city league.She was an awesome person friend and entertainer. She will be sadly missed!
Mike Cripe
September 12, 2008
Mary had everything one needs to be a great singer; talent, great sense of humor, style, and some kind of heartache inside. And she was a great singer, musician, and wit.
She encouraged and gave me great opportunity to play guitar. Made me laugh like crazy. What a wonder; what a loss.
RIP, Mary. God's love to all who mourn.
Steven Terwilliger
September 12, 2008
To the family and all of us who will miss the light of Mary. Let the music,the love and the laughfter forever live within all our spirits.
Steven G. Terwilliger
A long lost friend
September 12, 2008
My best of thoughts to Mary's family and friends...
Although sadness prevails with her passing, I'll keep in my heart Mary's talent, humor and her philosophy of not taking things too seriously.
g.
Kathy Lewis
September 12, 2008
Our heartfelt sympathies to Mary's family. She was an extraordinary talent and a generous soul. Those of us who listened to her (often singing along) as she performed with various other talented musicians, or as a solo act, knew that we were a part of something very special. Mary entertained us, welcomed us, befriended us, and created a community for her friends and fans that was one of a kind - as she was herself. Thanks for the music, the friendship and the memories.
Kathy and Marcia
Eileen Wayne
September 12, 2008
To my friend Mary...may you rest in peace. Our world will be a little less lovely with Mary gone. She was a wonderful entertainer and a beautiful person. To the Celli family, you have my deepest sympathy.
Keturah Orr
September 11, 2008
As a young up and coming artist Mary helped me find my voice. She had such a gentle guiding spirit. My love and prayers are with all those who were close to her. Thank you Mary for believing in me. I know you'll be watching over the rest of my journey. I miss you.
Sue and Art Skidmore
September 11, 2008
To the Chely Family
We will miss seeing Mary walking around the neighborhood. Since her return home she has become a fixture. We are sorry for your loss.
Laura O'Reilly
September 11, 2008
Dear Mr. Chely, John, Jim and Families,
Our heartfelt condolences to all of you. Mary was a great friend to all. She gave so much and asked for so little in return. Our thoughts are with you at this time. We will continue to play Mary's music in our house where she will live on in our hearts and memories for years to come.
Laura (Wahl) and Sean O'Reilly
Pat Force
September 11, 2008
The news of Mary's death and our loss brought the cold flash of memories she created before our eyes. The chill was the knowledge of the loss and the and the wish I had been there before any bad news. Her music and her laugh will always be a comfort to me and something I can share with others.
Chi Chi Losito
September 11, 2008
Dear Bob, John and Jimmy, please accept my sincerest sympathy with Mary's passing. She'll be deeply missed.
Miss Me, But Let Me Go
(Author Unknown)
When I come to the end of the road, and the sun has set for me.
I want no rites in a gloom-filled room. Why cry for a soul set free?
Miss me a little—but not too long,
and not with your head bowed low.
Remember the love that was once shared.
Miss me, but let me go.
For this is a journey we all must take, and each must go alone.
It’s all a part of the master’s plan, a step on the road to home.
When you are lonely and sick of heart, go to the friends we know.
Bear your sorrow in good deeds.
Miss me, but let me go.
Peggy Smyers/MacNaughton
September 11, 2008
Mary will be greatly missed by all her ole Wet Goods Friends..She always had a big friendly smile on her..and oh what talent!..peace be with her
Sue St.Louis
September 11, 2008
I am so very, very sorry to hear this news. Mary, I so enjoyed your music over the past 30 years, and quick visits during the set breaks. I picture you and your mom up there now, kicking up your heels and singing with joy, in the back of a pink Cadillac! Thank you for your joy and openness. Keep an eye on us.
MICHAEL PALYUN
September 11, 2008
OH MY MARY,MAY YOU BE AT PEACE AND ENTERTAIN THE ONES YOU LOVE ,I'LL MISS YOU AS WE ALL WILL,GOD BLESS ,MY SWEET MARY.
the gang on Senior Day 1971
Maria Marosek Naylor
September 11, 2008
Mary was my first singing partner.......starting at N.D. in 1967. Whether it was a school assembly,a party, the Chely's basement, or our favorite old hidden cematary back in the woods at Harris Hill.......with or without an audience.....it was just our two voices and Mary's Ovation guitar. We wrote songs and spent hours recording our harmonies on cassette or reel to reel. We laughed so much when we listened back.....we blended so well that we couldn't tell who was singing which part.
Our musical roads took us to different coasts, and tho we didn't travel the whole journey together......I am so proud to say that we did it.......spent our lives making music.
God speed Mona.....
Keep On Rockin.
Bob, Olga, John, Mary , Jim & Merrick
September 11, 2008
Ann Cummings
September 11, 2008
Dear Mary,
If I had only known I would have been there by your side. You were such a good friend for many years. You embraced the world around you; your personality and music just reached out to everyone - old and young. But I know you will be a bright star in the sky. I will be looking up at night for your inspiration. Love, Ann Fairchild Cummings
Theresa Larrabee Creed
September 11, 2008
Mary
You may be gone from this life but you will never be gone from the hearts of all the lucky individuals whose lives were touched by you...and there are many. It will never be with saddness that I speak your name but with happiness and joy for all the great memories of a very special woman and friend. You will be missed. May you rest in peace and sing forever with the angels.
Jerry Straight
September 11, 2008
Mary,
I will miss your smiling face every time I would run into you it was always a pleasure. I will miss you.
Denise Hayes
September 11, 2008
Dear Chelys,
Please accept my sympathy for the death of Mary. I have known and loved Mary for many years. She always embraced life and had such strong faith in all things. My family will miss her.
Bob Zawko
September 11, 2008
To the family of Mary Celli,
Our prayers and thoughts are with you and Mary at this time. She will be missed.
Bob & Joanne Zawko
Charmaine Cantrell-Ushkow
September 11, 2008
Mary
we love you so much and hope you are at peace. I know you're up there singing already.
Charmaine
John Cusick
September 11, 2008
Bob, Jim, and John,
My condolences to you all. She was a wonderful and talented person and a very good friend to everyone in my family. She'll be missed by all of us.
Susan(Knox-Barbosa)&Elson Barbosa
September 11, 2008
Dear Mary,Great People leave indelible impressions in ones heart and soul.Our lives changed the moment you smiled at us.You have given,and given your all.May God now give you Eternal Peace and Happiness.Para Sempre.You will be missed,We Love You
Fran Kunzinger-Cerio
September 11, 2008
I am so sorry to hear of Mary's death. We were friends from high school days and were involved in many musical projects together for several years. I have many pleasant memories of Mary and my thoughts are with her family and her many friends for her loss.
Fran Kunzinger-Cerio
Toshia Spence
September 11, 2008
Mary will be greatly missed. I have heard her play at Barb's Soups On and she was a great musician. Our hearts are with her family
Karen Hardy
September 11, 2008
My sincere condolences to the family. Mary will always remain a fond memory. I spent many happy hours listening to her music.
Bull and Arrows Band Group
September 11, 2008
Maxine Drost
September 11, 2008
Mary will be greatly missed by all of us at Liberty Corner in Asheville, NC. We are so grateful to have known and been able to love her. Her spirit and enthusiam for life were an inspiration to everyone who knew her. Fly with the eagles Mary!
Jackie Eldridge
September 11, 2008
Mary, you were strong and brave. You truly cared about people. You are irreplaceable.
Jackie Eldridge
Cheryl Guild
September 11, 2008
Dear Mary -
You will be missed by all that loved you and all that had the good fortune of knowing you. Memories last forever; may our hearts forever remember you in song. Peace.
Cheryl,
Christina, Nick and Jason Chely
Jo Chalk
September 11, 2008
To the Celli Family,
Mary was so talented, always glad to see you and full of energy, I feel fortunate to have known her. Please accept my heartfelt sympathy.
Joe & Peg Tillinghast
September 11, 2008
Our thoughts and prayers are with you at this time.
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