Lena Marie Vetrino

April 2, 1929 – July 17, 2026

Lena Marie (Wallace) Vetrino, 97, of Binghamton, passed away peacefully on Friday, July 17, 2026. She was born in Johnson City, New York, on April 2, 1929, to the late Wells Willard Wallace and Marbel Teresa Wood.

Marie was predeceased by her beloved husband of 61 years, Antonio “Tony” Vetrino, who went to be with our Lord on April 6, 2010. She was also predeceased by her siblings, Eleanor Glen and Stewart Wallace. Together, Tony and Marie built a beautiful life centered around family and love. Their devotion to one another was an inspiration to all who knew them.

She is survived by her devoted daughter, Debra Vetrino of Binghamton; her cherished granddaughter, Geena Scalzo; and her adored great-granddaughters, Sophia French and Lucia French, who brought immeasurable joy and pride to her later years. Seeing four generations of girls together was one of Marie’s greatest blessings. She is also survived by several beloved nieces and nephews, all of whom held a special place in her heart.

Known affectionately as Marie, she had a smile that could light up any room and a quick wit that kept everyone laughing. She was known for her spunky personality, kind heart, and ability to make everyone around her feel welcomed and loved. Marie was famously known for her distinctive whistle—one that you could hear from a mile away. She was also known for always having a tissue close by—tucked in her pocket, up her sleeve, or under her pillow, just as everyone expected. It was just one of the many little things that made her unforgettable.

Marie found happiness in life’s simple pleasures. She loved playing cards, enjoying bingo, and spending time with friends at the East Side Senior Center, where she created many special friendships and memories. She enjoyed taking trips to casinos and loved spending weekends at the Moose Lodge, where she and Tony could often be found dancing the jitterbug together. She treasured the companionship of others, being part of her community, and the many friendships she formed throughout her life, including those at Good Shepherd Fairview Home.

A very special thank you to her niece, Linda Lee, for her love, support, and presence throughout Marie’s life. A special thank you to Trish Brock, Marie’s devoted caregiver and dear friend for the past eight years, for her companionship, support, and exceptional care she provided. The family would also like to express their appreciation to George Eck for his friendship, love, support, and the many buggy rides behind the bicycle he shared with Marie throughout the years.

Though her absence leaves a tremendous void, Marie’s love, laughter, strength, and devotion to her family will remain in the hearts of all who knew and loved her forever.

The family will receive friends at St. Mary of the Assumption Church, 192 Court Street, Binghamton, NY 13901, on Thursday, July 23, 2026, from 9-10am with a Funeral Mass at 10am. The burial ceremony will follow at Calvary Cemetery.