Obituary of Marilyn Jean Schornstheimer

McInerny Funeral HomeBorn January 5, 1962, entered God's kingdom on December 14, 2023. She was predeceased by her father, Willis L. Minch; mother, Donna Rae Gilbert Minch; grandmothers, Rachel Lattin Gilbert, and Cecelia Skibinski Minch Duffy; grandfathers, Franklin Gilbert and John F. Minch; and father-in-law Richard Schornstheimer, Sr.  She is survived by her husband, Richard Schornstheimer, Jr.; son, Zeke Minch Schornstheimer; sisters, Karen (Mike) Foley, Jayne (Anthony) Marino, and Manda Minch; mother-in-law Margery Schornstheimer; sister-in-law Diane (Jeff) Ingham; her adoring nieces, Rachael Marino, Sarah Marino, and Summer Minch, and loving nephews AJ Minch, Josh Klugo and Mike Klugo; her aunts, uncle, and cousins; and many wonderful friends. 

Marilyn was born, and grew up, in Elmira, NY, where she graduated from Elmira Free Academy High School in 1980. Marilyn was an excellent swimmer and broke many A.A.U. records during her years of competing. She played on C.Y.O. Kickball and Cheerleading teams for Our Lady of Lourdes School, and played Cinderella softball, winning numerous championships in all of them. Marilyn lived and worked in Elmira for many years, including at Plantscape, and as a Dental Assistant for Dr. Lodico.  Marilyn suffered a permanent injury while working for UPS, yet she handled her disability with grace and perseverance throughout her lifetime.

Marilyn met the love of her life and soulmate, Richie during her teen years. They were married in 1984 at Our Lady of Lourdes Catholic Church. Marilyn and Richie were blessed with their son, Zeke, whom Marilyn adored with all her heart. Marilyn, Richie and Zeke later moved to Montour Falls, NY, where Marilyn studied and became a Reiki Therapist. She also lived for a short time in Florida before returning to the Watkins Glen area.  She made each place she lived in a beautiful home, full of love.

Marilyn loved bringing comfort to others. One of her most loved passions was providing pet therapy to the infirmed. She was completely dedicated to visiting the Falls Home regularly in Montour Falls with her beloved Chihuahua “Seven”, bringing comfort to so many. 

Marilyn was a beautiful, sweet, and caring soul, and her light will always be with us. Marilyn had the most beautiful smile and an infectious laugh that will always be remembered.  She loved everyone unconditionally.  She was a wonderful wife, mother, and sister, who is loved by her family, and by all those whose lives she touched.  

Services for Marilyn will be held on Thursday, February 1, 2024 at McInerny Funeral Home, 502 W Water Street, Elmira.  Calling hours will be from 3:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m., followed by a 6:00 p.m. funeral service.  A livestream of the service will be on YouTube; please click McInerny Funeral Home. 

In lieu of flowers, donations in Marilyn’s memory may be made to Bampa’s House, 170 E First Street, Corning NY 14830. https://bampashouse.org/. The family is eternally grateful for the love and care Marilyn received while there.