Mary Jane Thaney

In loving memory of Mary Jane Thaney, whose vibrant spirit and boundless creativity touched the lives of all who knew her. With profound sadness, we announce her sudden passing on June 28, 2024 at her home in Rochester, NY after a short battle with cancer. She was born to John Lincoln and Gladys Young in Rochester, NY on May 28, 1949. Mary Jane was a beacon of love, warmth, creativity, and generosity that was widely felt by all whom she encountered. She is survived by her husband of almost 50 years, Thomas E. Thaney, and loving children Maxwell (Mary) Thaney, Michael (Adriana) Thaney, and Kaitlin (Dave Riordan) Thaney, as well as five grandchildren who were the light of her life, Brigid, Patrick, Gabriel, Grace Thaney and Zev Thaney Riordan. Mary Jane is survived by her siblings, Nancy (Bruce) Burgoyne, Cindy Worden, Janis Fore, Jack (Deborah) Young, Wendy (Jim) Gregory and countless nieces and nephews. She is predeceased by her father, John Lincoln Young, mother, Gladys Young, nephew, Shawn Burgoyne, brothers-in-law, James Worden, Scott Fore, and Patrick Thaney. A dedicated artist and teacher retired from BOCES, Mary Jane found her truest expression through painting, capturing the beauty of life with every stroke of her brush. Her works, infused with passion and insight, reflected not only her talent but also her deep appreciation for the world's wonders. Each canvas was a testament to her imaginative soul and her ability to find artistry in every corner of existence. Beyond her art, Mary Jane was a dedicated teacher for over 24 years, working to advocate and support developmentally disabled teens and adults learn and feel a sense of safety and community. She was a beacon of warmth and care within her family. Her love for us knew no bounds, and her nurturing presence brought comfort and joy to our lives every day. She cherished family gatherings, adventures and experiencing as much joy as she could during her time on Earth, creating cherished moments filled with laughter and love that we will forever hold dear in our hearts. Her adventurous and creative spirit was infectious, always eager to explore new horizons and embrace the beauty in the world. Whether traveling to new cities with her children or experiencing the beauty of Rochester, Mary Jane approached life with a sense of wonder and curiosity that inspired all who accompanied her on these journeys. Her sudden departure leaves a void that can never be filled and a deep ache given how much she lived for us and with us, but we take solace in the profound impact she had on each of us. Her memory will continue to inspire us to live with creativity, love fiercely, and seize every opportunity to seek out joy and adventure with open arms, just as she did. In honoring Mary Jane's life, let us remember her not with tears of sorrow, but with gratitude for having been given time with her at all, as she made every moment full of a depth of love and presence that is difficult to capture in words. May her spirit live on through her love and the enduring memories she created with all who were fortunate enough to know her. As we bid farewell, we find comfort in knowing that her legacy of love, art, and adventure will forever be a guiding light in our lives. Rest in peace, Mom. We love you most (remember), through and through …. yesterday, today, and tomorrow too. Family and friends are invited to call at the Leo M. Bean and Sons Funeral Home Monday 4-7pm. Funeral Mass Tuesday 10am at St. Pius Tenth Church, 3000 Chili Ave. Rochester, NY 14624.

Mary Jane Thaney

May 28, 1949 - June 28, 2024