Mary Agness Miknavich

Mary Agnes Farr Miknavich, 92, of Manny Corners Road, Amsterdam, NY; went to be with the Lord after a long illness Tuesday morning June 25, 2019, surrounded by her family, friends and those whom she had touched with her kindness, at Wilkinson Residential Healthcare Facility in Amsterdam, NY.

Born in Amsterdam on October 17, 1926, she was the daughter of the late George and Agnes Riding Farr.

Mary received her education at St. Mary’s Institute in Amsterdam and after graduation entered the convent as a novice. She decided not to pursue her final vows, but her strong faith sustained her throughout the course of her life.

Mary was briefly employed by Mohasco Industries, but Mary’s true love and calling was children. She returned to school and earned her B.A. in education from the College of St. Rose and an M.A. in education from SUNY Albany. She began her teaching career in the Oppenheim-Ephrata and Town of Florida school districts. For most of her career she taught in the Amsterdam School District including both, Truax Road and Barkley schools. After retiring, Mary remained active in the retired teachers association for many years, and enjoyed attending the luncheons with her friends into her 80’s. Mary’s outgoing spirit will be remembered by all who knew her, as she was a generous, charitable person and conscientious teacher who loved her job.

Mary was predeceased by her husband, Anthony Miknavich. She is survived by two daughters, Christine Vila (Bruce) of Amsterdam, Marie Miknavich of Utica, two sons, Paul Miknavich (Donna) and John Miknavich (Nicole) of Garland, Texas, four grandchildren, Holly Ann Schulz, Heather Martinez, (Joe), Anthony Miknavich and Alena Miknavich, two great grandchildren, Ethan and Rosalie Viper Martinez. Many nieces, nephews and cousins also survive.

Mary was also predeceased by her infant son, David, her sister, Teresa Hidde, four brothers, George, David, Walter and John “Jack” Farr.

Thank you to all of the family members, neighbors, and friends who stopped in to see Mary and helped her with chores in her apartment. Special thanks to her housekeeper, Loretta Aubin, whose wonderful care and patience extended Mary’s ability to live independently for many years. Also, to the care staff at the Sentinel of Amsterdam and Wilkinson Skilled Nursing Facility for their kindness and compassion during Mary’s final days.

Relatives and friend are invited to attend a Mass of Christian Burial, which will be celebrated Friday June 28, 2019 at 11:15 at St. Mary’s Church, 156 East Main Street, Amsterdam, NY.

Visitation will be held from 10:00 a.m. prior to the mass at St. Mary’s Church.

Interment will follow at St. Mary’s Cemetery, Fort Johnson, NY.

In lieu of flowers, memorial gifts in Mary’s name may be made to Sisters of St. Joseph of Carondelet, 385 Watervliet-Shaker Road, Latham, NY 12110.

Arrangements are by the Riley Mortuary, Inc., 110 Division Street, Amsterdam, NY 12010

www.rileymortuaryinc.com