Mary R. Forgione, 91, of Niagara Falls, NY, passed away on August 27, 2024 at Schoellkopf Health Center under the care of Niagara Hospice. Born in Niagara Falls, NY, she was the daughter of the late Salvatore 'Sam' and Rosa (Strangio) Fazio.

Mary was a graduate of Niagara Falls High School. On August 20, 1955, she married Joseph J. Forgione, Sr. at St. Joseph Church, and they shared almost 63 years together before Joe passed on May 23, 2018. Over the years, Mary worked as a secretary for the Niagara Falls City School District, at the Earl W. Brydges Library, and—her favorite—as a hostess at Fortuna's Restaurant. And in her later years, ever the social butterfly, Mary joined the Cristoforo Colombo Society and could often be found at the casino (as much for the free gifts as for the gambling). Her backyard garden was a point of pride and she loved nothing more than cooking, baking, and hosting her family at her home. Above all, Mary's greatest joy in life was spending time with her great-grandchildren. She will be fondly remembered as a spitfire: there was a ton of personality packed into her tiny frame, and the world is a little less bright without her in it.

Mary is survived by her children, Joseph (Lori) Forgione, Jr. and Andrea (Thomas) Wrobel; her grandchildren, Amanda (Robert) Budwick, Adam Joseph Forgione, Nicholas (Nicole Dutton) Wrobel, Amy (Steven) Jamieson, and Jennifer (Daniel Beicke) Wrobel; her great-grandchildren, Madelyn, McKenzie, Xander, Benny, Thomas, and Archie; her brother, Dominic (late Anna) Toliano; and several nieces, nephews, and cousins. In addition to her beloved husband of 62 years, she was sadly predeceased by her granddaughter, Sarah Elizabeth Forgione.

Visitation will be held on Friday, September 6 from 4 – 6 PM at M.J. COLUCCI & SON NIAGARA FUNERAL CHAPEL, 2730 MILITARY ROAD, NIAGARA FALLS, NY 14304, where funeral services will begin at 6 PM. Private interment in St. Joseph's Cemetery, Niagara Falls, NY will take place at the convenience of the family. In lieu of flowers, memorial offerings may be made to Niagara Hospice, www.niagarahospice.org. Visit mjcoluccifuneralchapel.com for online condolences.