Mary Mannone-Sowinski

mary mannone-sowinski
Mary passed away quickly and peacefully in her home at the good old age of 93. Dementia caused her decline, but her inner life was filled with love, and peace, and the joy that came from her faith in Jesus! As a child growing up during the Great Depression and a World War, life taught her to be fearful. But faith taught her to turn to Jesus. Air raid drills, bread lines, news of neighborhood boys killed in action, she prayed to God through it all, and got strength to press on. And life did get better! The war ended, the economy flourished, she excelled in school, and went on to graduate college and become a teacher – truly what she was called and created to be! Her teaching career started in Harlem. She was in her early 20s and newly married to Anthony Mannone. Their families lived in Brooklyn and Manhattan, but Mary’s dream was to move to the “country” – aka Long Island! Through hard work and sacrifice, she and Anthony saved up a down payment for a house. Two children, $9000, and four determined years later, her dream came true. She landed a job as a first-grade teacher in the Commack school district, bought a house (for $18,000) and Commack became her hometown! As a teacher in the town in which she lived, Mary was a pillar in the community. She was easily recognized by her students and their parents as she shopped, gardened, dined out, and attended events. She was honored and blessed to be acknowledged and admired. Even after she retired, she’d run into students and parents who'd remember her and thank her for teaching them to read. It delighted her so! Mary became a widow when she was 44. Her husband Anthony passed away suddenly from a heart attack, the day after Mother’s Day in 1976. He was 45. Anthony had been laid off for a year, as were many who worked in the defense industry in the 70’s. Finances were tight, but thanks to her teacher’s salary, her family was provided for. Anthony got to spend his final year of life enjoying hunting, fishing, boating, and music – the hobbies that he loved. Mary found love a second time around when she met the young and handsome seafarer Joseph Sowinski. He was warm and gentle, with blue eyes and blonde hair and rugged good looks. He brought passion, fun, and stability back into her life. And lots of turkey! Joe loved to cook, and turkey was his favorite. Mary loved to cook, adding Italian side dishes to all Joe’s meals. They blended somehow! Mary and Joe grew together in love and faith. They leaned on each other, and leaned on their Savior through life’s tough battles. Mary was forced into retirement at the age of 60. Though she had hoped to work until 62, God had other plans. He opened the door to put her teaching gift to use for His kingdom. She became a Sunday school teacher at Grace Church, teaching the bible to children and seeing them come to saving faith in Jesus! It was one of the most rewarding seasons of her life. She taught Sunday school for over 10 years. Her legacy is still impacting future generations for God’s glory! For 24 years, Mary and Joe enjoyed life and love with their children and step-children, grandchildren and step grandchildren. They created many wonderful family memories. Sadly, Joe passed away from a 5 year cancer battle in 2004. He was 65. She was 72, and a widow once again. For the last 21 years of her life, Mary’s desire was for fellowship and community. She took every opportunity to be involved in life, and was wholeheartedly embraced by friends, extended family, neighbors, and her church. She participated in all sorts of events and activities with so many wonderful people. The love and care she received from everyone were an honor and a blessing. They did not go unnoticed. It kept a smile on her face until her very last day. Mary got to see grandchildren get married, and great grandchildren be born. She has left an impact on many lives, and a legacy of faith, hope, and love for those who watched her journey through life God's grace. She will be fondly thought of and dearly missed. God has promised "He will wipe away every tear from their eyes, and death shall be no more, neither shall there be mourning, nor crying, nor pain anymore, for the former things have passed away.” Revelation 21:4. Rest and rejoice, our beautiful Mary, until we meet again! Children: Audrey (William) Link, Nina (Tony) Parise Step-Children: Judy (Jim) Koch, Joseph (Rita) Sowinski Grandchildren: Joseph (Brooke) Link, James Link, Adam (Christin) Parise, Anthony (Laura) Parise Loni (passed) & Joey Sowinski, Alivia, Jayda & JoJo Koch Great Grandchildren: Beck & Tallulah Link, Asher, Ava, Carter and Anderson Parise, Daniel, Dominic, & Melody Sowinski

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  1. Our deepest sympathies to you and your family for the loss of your beloved mother, may she rest in Eternal Peace,

  2. I remember well meeting Nanny for the first time and the bond was instant! What a fun, happy, loving, person she was! I think my daughter fell in love with her before she did her grandson Joe! I remember when Brooke first visited the Links, she came home talking non-stop about this charming lady! I’ve heard so many wonderful and fun stories about her and have a few locked up in my heart. We wish peace, comfort, and healing for the family that only God can give. Love, Pam & Dave


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