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Mary Ponessa Pendino - Class of 1954

Submitted by Fran Olson Gustafson 1965 <fgustafson917@gmail.com> on 14/Feb/2026
71.223.130.53

    Mary Julia Ponessa Pendino, 89, of Newburgh, New York, passed away peacefully on February 14, 2026, in her hometown, surrounded by the love and warmth that defined her life. Born on November 30, 1936, in Newburgh, Mary was the cherished daughter of Anthony Ponessa and Rose Jannotti Ponessa.

A lifelong Newburgh resident, Mary dedicated her career to making others feel beautiful and cared for. She worked for many years as a hairstylist at Bruno's on Mill Street, where her kindhearted nature and joyful spirit made her a local favorite. Together with the support of her husband, Alfred "Big Al" Pendino, they opened Al Pen Hut, lovingly known as Pendino's — which they proudly operated for 18 years. In later years, Mary and Al enjoyed spending time at their home in Port St. Lucie, Florida. Mary also enjoyed baking. She often had fresh pizzelles or biscottis for anyone stopping by. She also spent her time at the Town of Newburgh Recreation Center playing pickleball with her sister and friends. And most of all she enjoyed spending time with her grandchildren and first great grandson, Marco.

Predeceased by her husband Alfred Pendino, her son Dominic Pendino and her brother John Ponessa. Survived by her daughter Julie Defabio and husband Mark, her son Michael Pendino and his wife Connie, and six grandchildren, Gianna DeFabio (Rob), Nina DeFabio (Anthony), Mia DeFabio (Abdel), Dayna Pendino (Hayden), Sage Pendino, and Dominic Pendino, and her great grandson Marco.

A family statement reads dearest Mary, you will be missed by all of us. We find comfort knowing you are at peace. There is no goodbye, only forever love.

Family and Friends are invited to call on Wednesday, February 18th from 4-7 pm at Brooks Funeral Home, 481 Gidney Ave, Newburgh. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 10 am on Thursday February 18th at Sacred Heart Church, 301 Ann St., Newburgh with burial following at Cedar Hill Cemetery, Newburgh.

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