Maureen A. Toner

Maureen Ann Toner, 56 passed gracefully from this world into the next on May 27, 2013, leaving behind a legacy of love, service and joy. Maureen will be greatly missed by her family, including her mother Joan Toner, siblings Mary Ellen Cook; James Toner; Kathy Toner and Wendy Wheeler; Susan and Todd Hylton; Patricia Goudarzi;Thomas Toner and Marshall Pearson; and cherished nephews Zachary Cook and Tim McFillin, and beloved niece and goddaughter, Mary McFillin.Maureen is also survived by many loving aunts, uncles, and cousins. She was predeceased by her devoted father James W. Toner, brother-in-law Michael Cook, and her dear aunt and uncle, Margaret and Dan Carrara, each of whom had a special place in their hearts for Maureen. Born in Valley Stream, NY as the second of seven children, Maureen moved with her family to Endwell at age four and lived there until departing for college. Over the years, she would return many times to live locally. Her life-long search to be of service to God and to others, particularly those less fortunate, caused her to reside in other areas as well, from Poughkeepsie NY, to Ohio, NH and most recently in Somerset NJ. Maureen received her bachelor’s degree in recreational therapy from SUNY Brockport, reflecting her love of play, her aptitude at sports, and her delight at helping others. As a rec. therapist, Maureen worked in a number of healthcare facilities where her particular aptitude for working with the elderly became evident. It was at Brockport that Maureen forged her lifelong friendship with college roommate Grace Kidney, who was there to take care of Maureen during her recent illness. Maureen’s choice of profession and her decision later in life to dedicate herself to serving God as a member of Catholic religious communities reflected her desire to live a life of purpose and service. She will be remembered for her strong Catholic faith and devotion to Jesus and Mother Mary. Maureen was an early member of the women’s religious community in Ohio, the Children of Mary, and she retained a loving friendship with the community after leaving. She was devoted to the community at the Mount Saint Francis Hermitage in Maine NY. Maureen would often find sanctuary and peace among the Franciscan Friars, particularly through the guidance of her spiritual advisor, Fr. Benedict. Quiet and gentle by nature, Maureen also had an underlying fortitude and unrelenting courage that impressed those around her. Even throughout her illness, Maureen never complained or lost hope and faith in God, serving an inspiration for all who came into contact with her.Her sense of play was enormous and her smile could brighten any room. Her infectious laugh more like a giggle could erupt easily and unexpectedly. She excelled at having fun, finding creative new board games, and inspiring others to enjoy life. Those who know Maureen well will smile at each game of Rummikubes or Jenga, remembering her lively, competitive spirit.Each time the Jenga sticks fall, and the wind is blowing, we will know Maureen had something to do with the game’s outcome.Maureen also loved to sing.Her most precious serenade was for her father at his funeral mass and more recently, she sang in the choir at St. Mary’s Church. Maureen loved the beach and swimming in the ocean, and there wasn’t a wave mighty enough to overcome her will to ride it out! She enjoyed cooking and eating healthy food, while occasionally sneaking in her traditional favorite of homemade brownies! Maureen will be terribly missed by all whose lives she touched; she will be remembered always with great love and affection. Maureen’s family would like to thank the amazing staff at the Willow Creek Center in Somerset NJ for making the last few months of Maureen’s life especially warm and purposeful. Maureen was making new friends and a difference in people’s lives up to the end of her life.She will remain in our hearts always, as a wonderful daughter, sister, niece, aunt and good friend. A Requiem Mass in the traditional Latin Rite (Extraordinary Form) will held Monday, June 3rd at 9:30 am from St. Mary of the Assumption Church, 37 Fayette Street, Binghamton. Burial will be in Calvary Cemetery, Johnson City. The Family will receive friends at the Allen Memorial Home, 511-513 East Main Street, Endicott, Sunday from 4-7 pm. In honor of Maureen’s memory, contributions may be made to a special charity of your choice.