Theresa M. (Kozak) Boris

Theresa M. (nee, Kozak) Boris, formerly of Endicott NY, was born April 8, 1927 and passed into the arms of Jesus on January 26th, 2025.  She is survived by her four children: C.S. “Jules” Boris (Carol J. Sconzert), California; Peter J. Boris (Paulette), Ohio; Lisa Zuccolo, Binghamton, NY; Francis A. Boris, Georgia; and grandchildren: Angelique Zuccolo (Clarke L. Smith), New Jersey; Marielle Zuccolo, Binghamton, NY, and Michael Boris (Amanda Myhal Boris), Ohio.  She is also survived by life-long friend and sister in Christ, Gloria Salamida, and many dear nieces, nephews, cousins and special friends. She was predeceased by her parents, Mary (Novobilski) Kozak and Andrew J. Kozak, her cousin, Marion Matta Kasmer, formerly of Johnson City, NY, and great-grand dog, Benny.

During World War II, Theresa joined the nursing training corps at Wilson Hospital and later worked professionally as an executive secretary. Theresa was a devoted member of the Third Order of Saint Francis, and also served her community as a member of the Altar Rosary Societies at the Catholic churches of St. Ambrose and St. Casimir’s, in Endicott, NY.

Theresa’s life work was exemplified by her dedication and love of her Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, her children and grandchildren, and friends. She lived with the grace of the Holy Spirit and was an example of love personified. Her gifts of quiet strength, unwavering compassion, and amazing resiliency were evident to all who had the privilege of sharing in Theresa’s company.

She lived by the motto, “If you see a need, fill it.”  When asked her greatest words of wisdom, Theresa fervently offered, “Pray, Pray, Pray!”, and with each parting she would say, “I love you, In Jesus’ Holy Name”.  Her family will forever be filled with her love, their actions guided by her wisdom, and their laughter inspired by her jokes and incredibly unique and endearing sense of humor.

The family wishes to thank her many caregivers at Susquehanna Nursing Home, Johnson City, NY for their care and rehabilitation services over the past 17 years.  Additionally, the family expresses their extreme gratitude to Dr. Sethi, and the many doctors, nurses and aides at UHS Wilson Hospital, Main Tower 3, for their expert and compassionate care. Theresa’s life was touched by their educated hands and hearts; the family is touched by their dedication.

It was Theresa’s wish that expressions of sympathy be made in her memory to the Children’s Home of Wyoming Conference at 1182 Chenango St., Binghamton, NY 13901.

In honor of Theresa’s spirit, on any warm afternoon, spend some time outside to feel the sunshine on your face, and take in the beauty of nature.

Visitation will be held on Friday, January 31, from 11am-12pm at St. James Church, Johnson City, NY, with a mass of Christian burial to follow directly at 12 Noon.  Private burial will be held at the convenience of the family.

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