Mary Beirne Spallone

Mary Spallone (née Beirne), a beloved mother, grandmother, sister, and the undisputed leader of our family, passed away peacefully in Lake Bluff, IL, on May 2, 2024, at the age of 90. Born on May 15, 1933, to James and Mary (Sammons) Beirne, Mary was the eldest of five siblings and a true trailblazer of her generation.

As a registered nurse, following in her mother's footsteps, Mary dedicated her life to caring for others. Her unwavering strength and stoic nature guided her through life's challenges, as she raised seven boys with her beloved husband, Francis Spallone. Mary's discipline was legendary, yet her loyalty to family and friends revealed her tender heart.

Mary would often reflect on her greatest days in her early years, enjoying long car rides and exploring new places with Francis whom she married in 1954. To all who knew them, it was one of the greatest love stories of all time and a true inspiration. Now, she is most happy to be reunited with Francis in heaven.

Mary was preceded in death by her parents; her twin brother, Joseph Beirne; younger brother, Michael Beirne; children, Nicholas and Francis Xavier; and grandson, Luke Francis Spallone. She is survived by her siblings, Teresa Beirne Reidy (Richard) and Kenneth Beirne (Beverly); her six children, Michael Francis (Kimberly), Nicholas Gerard (Brenda), James Mark (Suzanne), Joseph Anthony (Laurel), twins William John (Kari) and Robert Louis (Beth); and 15 cherished grandchildren as well as 9 great-grandchildren with more on the way.

Mary Spallone will be deeply missed, but her legacy of love, strength, and devotion will forever remain in the hearts of those who knew her. May she rest in eternal peace, reunited with her beloved Francis in heaven.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held for Mary on Saturday, September 28, 2024, 10:00 a.m., St. Mary’s Church, 224 Franklin Street, Elmira. Interment, with committal prayers, will follow at St. Peter & Paul’s Cemetery.