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Mary B. Howe, of Arkport

ARKPORT-Mary B. Howe, 77, of 4 Oak Hill St., was taken unexpectedly Tuesday evening (August 9, 2016) at St. James Mercy Hospital.

Born in Hornell to parents Arthur and Mildred (Collins) Brunskill on September 4, 1938, Mary spent her formative years growing up in the Hornell community. Working as a receptionist at the former Bethesda Hospital during high school, Mary graduated from Hornell High School in 1956. Immediately following high school, Mary took a job as a telephone operator for New York Telephone Company. Mary’s quick wit, warm personality, and sharp sense of humor served her well later in life as a waitress for the Village Café in Arkport, finally retiring ten years ago.

Mary was a member of Christ Episcopal Church of Hornell for many years. An avid music fan, Mary especially enjoyed country music, particularly Vince Gill. Mary’s warm, kind and loving personality shone through in everything she did. She was always available in times of need, ready with a warm meal, an unexpected visit for a sick friend, or just a sympathetic ear. Though Mary has passed, she will fondly be remembered by all who benefitted from her giving heart and inviting spirit.

Mary was married to Kenneth “Nip” Howe for almost 50 years. “Nip” passed on September 17, 2007. She was also preceded in death by her beloved daughter, Karen Howe who passed October 8, 1988; 2 brothers, William Brunskill and Mason Brunskill; 2 sisters, Catherine Brill and Ella Mae Wilkins.

In addition to being a caring wife and friend, Mary’s life revolved around her children, grandchildren and extended family. Her family is extremely grateful for all of the sacrifices she made to provide them with love and support. We will miss her dearly.

Mary leaves a legacy of many children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. Surviving are her daughter, Debbie (David) Hunt of Cohocton; 2 sons, John (Laurie) Howe of Bear, DE and Bill (Kristine) Howe of Warsaw, NY; 2 sisters, Jean Lunn of Hornell and Helen Frost of Mesa, AZ; 6 grandchildren, Rachael VanCaeseele, Megan (Corrye) VanCaeseele-Cook, Alaina Howe, John Howe, Zach Howe and Payton Howe; 2 great-grandchildren, Quentyn VanCaeseele-Cook and Raegan Howe; as well as several nieces & nephews.

The family of Mary B. Howe will receive friends on Saturday from 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM (Noon) at the Dagon Funeral Home, 38 Church St., Hornell, NY where funeral services will be held at the conclusion of calling hours on Saturday at Noon with Father Tom Gramley officiating. Following the service, burial will be at Heritage Hill Cemetery, Arkport, NY.

Mary’s family requests that in lieu of flowers, memorial contributions in her name be made to Christ Church food pantry, PO Box 336, Hornell, NY 14843. Memorial forms will be available at the Dagon Funeral Home.

To leave an online condolence or share a memory, visit the Dagon Funeral Home.


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