Obituary of Mildred W. McNamara

Mildred W. McNamara, 93, passed away following a lengthy illness on July 27, 2014. Millie's parents were Harry and Ethel (Tasker) McNeil, last of Nichols, NY. Millie is survived by her devoted husband of 67 years, J. Joseph ("Joe") McNamara; daughter, Patricia (Michael) Bartnicki of Rochester; son, Robert (Cynthia) McNamara of Binghamton; daughter, Nancy McNamara of Johnson City; son, Timothy (Ellen) McNamara of Airmont, NY; son, Thomas (Johna) McNamara of Binghamton; seven grandsons, one granddaughter, and five great-grandchildren. She is also survived by a brother, Richard (Florence) McNeil; brother-in-law, Paul Cavataio; and many nieces and nephews. Millie's patience and fortitude were the consistent hallmarks of her great love of family, beginning with her two year wait for Joe to return from Europe after World War II. While busy raising their five children, she found time to pursue careers as a real estate agent and as a bookkeeper for several firms, including Joe's contracting business. Millie's business skills were renowned among family members and acquaintances, and she would not permit a checkbook to go unbalanced. Her faith inspired her unwavering love and support of Joe and their children through any trial or difficulty. That support was not only demonstrated with hugs, it came with many pithy sayings, including a favorite: "There's a happy medium." Following her retirement, Millie and Joe enjoyed years of travel, including between their Binghamton and Deltona, FL homes. After working hard for many years, in retirement Millie would often remind others that "I can't be rushed." She was not rushed-Millie took the time to lead a full, wonderful life. Joe and the rest of the family will miss her dearly. Joe and the family wish to extend their sincere thanks to all the dedicated and caring staff of Elizabeth Church Manor and St. Louise Manor in Binghamton. A Funeral Mass will be offered at the Church of the Holy Family, Endwell, Thursday at 10 a.m. Burial will be in Calvary Cemetery, Johnson City. The family will receive friends at the J.A. McCormack Sons Funeral Home, 141 Main St., Binghamton, Wednesday from 4-7 p.m. In lieu of flowers, expressions of sympathy in memory of Millie may be made to Mercy House of the Southern Tier (a home for the terminally ill), c/o Church of the Holy Family, 3600 Phyllis St., Endwell, NY 13760 or the Alzheimer's Association , 401 Hayes Ave., Endicott, NY 13760.