Mary McCarey (Vine)

Mary McCarey (Vine), 76, passed away peacefully on June 17, 2026, surrounded by the love of her family after a long journey with dementia.

Mary retired from Corning-Painted Post High School, where she worked as a Teacher's Assistant. She touched the lives of countless students over the years with the same patience, warmth, and compassion that defined every part of her life.

If you asked anyone who knew Mary to describe her, kindness would almost certainly be the first word they chose. She loved without judgment and accepted people exactly as they were. Her heart was wide open, and there was always room for one more person to feel seen, valued, and cared for. Whether she knew you for a lifetime or only a moment, Mary had a way of making you feel like you belonged.

Above all else, Mary adored her family. Being "Nana" was one of the greatest joys of her life, and her five grandchildren were the center of her world. She celebrated their accomplishments, comforted them through their struggles, and loved each of them with everything she had.

Mary is survived by her son, Jeremy McCarey and his wife, Morgan; her daughter, Bethany McCarey-Hammond and her husband, Eric; her beloved grandchildren, Taigan, Brendan, Evan, Mason, and Jovie; her sisters, Connie Oakden and Linda Ives; and many cherished nieces, nephews, cousins, extended family members, and dear friends.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Gerald and Jeanne Vine; her husband, James McCarey; and her brother, Jerry Vine.

While dementia changed so much in Mary's final years, it never erased the extraordinary life she lived or the love she gave so freely. Her legacy is found in the countless lives she touched through simple acts of generosity, quiet compassion, and unwavering acceptance.

The family would like to thank everyone who walked alongside Mary during her journey and who offered support, care, and love during her final days.

A celebration of Mary's life will be held at Christ Episcopal Church, 33 E. First Street, Corning, NY on Friday, September 25, 2026, at 1:00 p.m.

In honor of Mary, the family invites those attending to wear polka dots, a small tribute to the joy, warmth, and lighthearted spirit she brought into the lives of so many.

In lieu of flowers, those who wish to honor Mary's memory are invited to make a donation in her name to the Alzheimer's Association. Above all, the family hopes you will carry forward the kindness she so effortlessly shared with the world by loving people well, extending grace without judgment, and holding your loved ones a little closer.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Mary McCarey (Vine), please visit our floral store.