Mary Agnes Dunbar-Daluisio died in her home Oct. 4, 2017, surrounded by family and friends.
Mary was born on June 23, 1954, and joyously lived her life on Grand Island. Mary was beloved for her compassionate involvement with the community. For many years, she chaired the Grand Island Relay For Life cancer fundraising event, making it the most successful event of its kind. Mary was president of the altar society of St. Stephen R.C. Church, where she taught religious educational classes and helped many fellow parishioners through difficult times with her love, faith and kindness.
After being diagnosed with neuroendocrine cancer, Mary devoted herself to supporting research efforts and sharing her story. A courageous fighter, Mary gave others strength and hope in their battles. One of her favorite causes was the annual lawnmower race, which blossomed into a daylong celebration and competition, with the proceeds going to Relay For Life. The Grand Island Chamber of Commerce named her "Citizen of the Year" in both 2007 and 2015, in recognition of the time and energy she devoted to helping fellow Islanders.
A lifelong resident of Grand Island, Mary was known for her smile, wit and style. Between Mary's expertise and personal attention to each customer, she made every visit to Fuccillo Automotive Group a memorable experience.
Mary's loving family included her husband, James (Jim), her daughter Erin, sisters Charity, Margaret and Cecilia, brother Robert, best friend Leslie, parents Elizabeth Marie (Betty), Ted and Billy, and grandmother Agnes. Mary had many nieces and nephews who loved their "Aunt Mimi." Mary enjoyed being a member of the Stack family, one of the founding families of Grand Island, where she grew up surrounded by the love of her relatives, especially her first cousins.
Friends may call Friday from 4 to 8 p.m. at the Kaiser Funeral Home, 1950 Whitehaven Road, Grand Island. A memorial Mass will be celebrated Saturday at 10 a.m. at St. Stephen R.C. Church (the old church), 2100 Baseline Road. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Relay For Life Grand Island (www.relayforlife.org/grandislandNY).
Mary encouraged us all to be more forgiving, caring and to be better in everything we do (i.e. do it like she would). In Mary's words, "I love you."
Mary Agnes Dunbar-Daluisio