Obituary of Mary E. Christofaro

Elmira: The Lord took her by the hand on June 24, 2014 at age 89, as she was surrounded by her loving children. Betty was born on July 8, 1924 in Towanda PA the second oldest of 4 children born to John J. and Anna (Bochnewich) Crowley. Valentine M. Christofaro, Betty's loving husband of 61 years predeceased her on July 21, 2007. She is also predeceased by her beloved sisters, Regina L. Corsi and Patricia Ann Dailey, brother John "Jack" Crowley, Jr., and brother-in-law Bruce Dailey. Betty is survived by her devoted children, Rick Christofaro and wife Brenda, with their children, Allison and Kevin; Kathy Booth and husband Dewey, with their children, Elizabeth, Emily and Andrew; Betsy Morrisey and husband Patrick, with their children, Michael, Matt and Cate, all of Elmira. Also surviving are brothers-in-law John (Mary Margaret) Corsi, Anthony "Butch" (Sue Ellen) Christofaro; special cousin and friend Gilda Campanelli; and several other cousins, nieces and nephews. After moving from Towanda to Elmira, Betty was employed by Elmira Bank and Trust, later known as Marine Midland Bank. She left the bank to stay home and care for her children. After raising her family she went to work at Coughlin Beer Distributing. Betty was a devout Catholic with unshakeable faith and a beautiful soul who would always put the needs of others above her own. She attended Mass on a regular basis and was a long time member of the Divine Mercy Chapel at St. Casimir's Church. Throughout her life Betty found solace in her deep belief in a just and merciful God. A truly loving mother, wife and grandmother her greatest joy was time spent raising her children and caring for her grandchildren. It can be said that greatness is not found in possessions or position, but rather discovered in the goodness, humility and service to others and love for God. Friends are invited to Betty's Mass of Christian Burial on Thursday, July 3, 2014 at 10:00 a.m. in Ss. Peter and Paul Church. Interment, with committal prayers, will follow at St. Peter & Paul's Cemetery. Those wishing may remember Betty with a donation to either, Catholic Charities, 215 E. Church Street, Elmira NY 14901 or the American Red Cross, 123 Market Street, Corning NY 14830.