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McInerny Funeral Home

502 W. Water St.

Elmira, New York

Harry Tarby Obituary

Harry Tarby

Painted Post - Age 76, died, Tuesday, April 28, 2020 at Pathways ICF group home in Painted Post, releasing him from a life of intellectual impairment and poor health. He is predeceased by his parents Harry and Emma Coletta Tarby and his brother Tom. Harry is survived by brother Michael Tarby of Elmira with his wife Faith and their children, John Tarby, Jennifer Barry, Monica Tauroney, Melissa Wasko; brother Nick Tarby of Elmira with his wife Porky and their children, Nicky and Jeff Tarby, Darcy Baker, Tina Capozzi and Kristie Osgood. Harry spent most of his life living in various State Operated IRA group homes and most recently Pathways ICF group home in Painted Post. The family is appreciative of the care he received that enabled him to lead a life to the fullest of his ability. He had a keen sense of humor along with an infectious smile. He loved to listen to music, wear a baseball hat and dark sunglasses. Harry was also an avid John Wayne fan. He rarely missed attending program on a daily basis where he displayed a very strong work ethic by performing simple tasks and enjoying community with other residents. In his off hours Harry greatly enjoyed attending community events, shopping, and long van rides with the staff, who treated Harry with compassion and respect. The staff of his group home often made it possible for Harry to visit Elmira. He thoroughly enjoyed gatherings at Mike and Faith's home for picnics, where encouragement, love and support was offered by numerous family members. He so looked forward to visits at his residence by family and became so excited in anticipation of the visit, that staff would wait until that day to tell him of the impending visit. That said, however, he did not hesitate to tell you "You go now" when he was ready to return to his own schedule. Now it is with a heavy heart that we say "You go now, Harry". If you would like to honor Harry in some way, the family asks that you do so by sharing a smile and a kind gesture with someone. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held for Harry at a later date. Arrangements by McInerny Funeral Home.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by Star-Gazette from May 1 to May 3, 2020.

Memories and Condolences
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David Ralph

May 8, 2020

Mike, I think that is your voice I hear in this wonderful tribute, I am saddened to hear of your brother's passing. I know we talked about him once or twice, both in the context of just telling me about him, but also in my role as an independent, outside reviewer of client incidents at another agency. Your story then helped remind me of how important it is to be an observer from outside, as I am, and an irritant at times to the agency, adding to the welfare of residents like your brother. The interest you and your family took in Harry made his life fuller and happier. Thank you for sharing more details about his life. Dave Ralph

Lisa Galton

May 4, 2020

I have worked with Harry on and off for the past 20 years. I started my career in his home my first 6 years, left for a few years then came back for a couple years. I then again worked with him at his Day program before his last move. Harry loved people. He was always excited to see you and made you feel special by how happy he would get when he saw you. He always wanted someone sitting by him when he was working or just watching tv. He loved the company. So much that Sometimes he didnt want you to get up. He loved to go out in the community and went to many of my kids baseball games when they were little. Harry was a great guy and loved by many. He will be missed. ❤

Tony and Mary Ellen Panetta

May 3, 2020

Dear Mike and Faith,
We are so sorry to hear of your loss. Harry sounds like he was an amazing man . Love and prayers to you both and all of your family .

Rich and Mary Jane Cerio

May 3, 2020

Mike, Faith and Family:
We are sorry to hear of Harry's passing. May he rest in peace.

May 2, 2020

Mike and Family,
Very sorry to hear of Harry's passing. He used to come by the Barber shop every day. I always enjoyed his company. God bless you all and our prayers are with you and your family.
Joann and Rick Milazzo

Martha M

May 2, 2020

I didn't know Harry, but this obituary makes me wish I had. This is a loving, gentle and sweet story. Bless you all.

Irene Draper

May 2, 2020

Harry was like family to me. Even after his move to Painted post I sent cards and letters. I have a great pic I would love to get to family of him and I from November. He was one of a kind.

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McInerny Funeral Home

502 W. Water St., Elmira, NY 14901

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