Mary Guinane Obituary
Published by Legacy Remembers on Jul. 26, 2025.
Mary "Mimi" Guinane, 72, passed away peacefully on July 19, 2025, in Vestal, New York. Born on March 8, 1953, in Binghamton, New York, she brought joy and light into the world from the very beginning and continued to do so throughout her life.
Mimi was a proud graduate of Broome Community College. Her deep faith and commitment to service led her to a long and meaningful career at Saint James Church, where she managed day-to-day operations with grace and dedication. Her efforts helped the church run smoothly and created a welcoming space for all who entered. She was known not only for her organizational skills but also for the warmth and compassion she extended to everyone she encountered.
Her faith was a cornerstone of her life-she always carried a rosary with her and lived each day guided by its quiet strength. Mimi's devotion was not just something she practiced; it was something she radiated. Her presence brought comfort and peace to those around her.
Mimi's family was the heart of her world. She is lovingly remembered by her son Adam VanFossen and his wife Amanda VanFossen, along with their children Dean, Carson, and Kinley; her son Mark Samsonic; her sister Ann Marie Hores and husband David Hores, along with their children Dawn Shackleford and husband Greg with daughter Halley Mae; Kevin Hores and wife Allison Hores with children Audrina and Greyson; and Katie Hores. She is also remembered by her brother Michael Guinane and his sons John and James Guinane.
She was predeceased by her beloved husband John VanFossen, as well as her parents Stanley and Anna Mae Guinane.
To know Mimi was to feel seen, heard, and cared for. She had an extraordinary gift for making others feel special-whether through a warm embrace, a hearty laugh that filled the room, or one of her famous early-morning birthday calls that became cherished traditions. Her love came through in home-cooked meals shared around the table, in quiet moments of support during difficult times, and in the way she showed up-consistently-with gentle strength.
Mimi loved going for walks, spending time with family, doting on her animals, and living out her faith each day. She carried sunshine in her soul-her smile wide, laughter unfiltered-and brought joy wherever she went. Her energy was contagious; being near her made life feel lighter and more joyful.
A funeral Mass celebrating Mimi's life will be held at Church of the Holy Family in Endwell New York on July 24, 2025.
May Mary "Mimi" Guinane's memory continue to bring comfort to those who knew her. Her legacy of love, laughter, faith, and kindness will live on in every heart she touched. A Calling hours will be held on July 29, 2025, from 10:00 AM to 11:00 AM at Church of the Holy Family 3600 Phyllis Street . A Memorial Mass will be held on July 29, 2025, from 11:00 AM to 12:00 PM at Church of Holy Family 3600 Phyllis Street