Mary grew up in Norwich, NY, and graduated from Norwich High School. Her first job was working at Montgomery Ward. She later pursued a career working at Norwich Mills/Champion/Nortogs for 27 years, until their closure. Mary made significant contributions in her roles as receptionist, personnel clerk, manufacturing staff clerk and payroll clerk. Her next career venture was in Real Estate. She worked for Jim Antinore Realty and then Ray Cooley Realty as their office assistant, until her retirement.
On July 18, 1954, Mary married the love of her life, Earl B. Barnes. Together, they built a loving family. Mary is survived by her daughter Patricia Roma (John), her sister Betty Barnes, grandchildren Andrew Smith (Jennifer) and Amy Korver (Erik), as well as great-grandchildren Charles Smith, Aurora Smith, Korryn Korver, and Koen Korver. She is also survived by her brother-in-law Clayton Barnes, as well as several nieces and nephews. Mary also has step-grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and great-great-grandchildren in North Carolina. She was predeceased by her husband Earl, daughters Deborah Barnes and Pamela Barnes, her parents Harold Humphrey and Edith Lorimer Skinner, her siblings Veva Kline, Dorothy Humphrey, Robert Humphrey, and John Humphrey.
Mary was an active member of her community, participating as a member of the YMCA women swimmers and a member of the Broad Street Methodist Church. She also participated in the local Hospice Support group when able.
Mary enjoyed nothing more than watching her grandkids grow up and become beautiful adults. Then the great grandkids were born and the spoiling began all over again. All the kids called her grandma.
Mary loved to shop, even as her health began to fail. She couldn't pass up a bargain! Mary loved to go put to eat, especially with her sister Betty. They would take their Skip-Bo cards and make an afternoon of it.
Mary and Earl went on numerous bus trips with Betty and Dick, and Marion and Clayton. They frequently talked about the fun they had on these trips.
Mary loved the outdoors and was happy as long as Patty and Betty had plans to take her out.
Mary was a dog lover and will have Andy's dog Farley with her forever. She also loved Amy's dog Runty and the family's current dog, Rosie.
Mary's family wishes to thank the staff at Chase Memorial Nursing Home and UHS Chenango Memorial Hospital for the wonderful care Mary received. These people will always remain family.
Contributions in Mary's name may ne made to UHS Chenango Memorial Hospital Foundation or the Norwich Emergency Squad.
Calling hours will be held at R. J. Fahy Funeral Home, located at 116 N Broad Street, Norwich, NY, on Tuesday, January 27, 2026, from 12:00 pm to 2:00 pm, followed by a funeral service at the same location at 2:00 pm. Mary will be laid to rest at Mt. Hope Cemetery, 5697 St. Hwy. 12, Norwich at a later date.
Mary will be dearly missed by all who knew her.
