Virginia J. (DeNinis) O'Brien

Virginia J. (DeNinis) O’Brien, 86, of Binghamton, New York, passed away on Tuesday, July 22, 2025. She was surrounded by her beautiful family, who filled her room with an abundance of love as she peacefully passed into God’s hands.

Virginia "Nina" was predeceased by her beloved husband, Robert E. O'Brien; her cherished son, Robert A. O'Brien; her precious grandson, Jonathan R. O'Brien; and her loving sisters, Rose Linda DeNinis and Marie Giustiniani. We take comfort in knowing they have been joyfully reunited. Her parents, Amelio and Emily DeNinis, also predeceased her, along with several aunts and uncles from the O'Brien, DeRitis, and DeNinis families.

Virginia "Ma" is survived by her devoted children: William O’Brien (Rebecca Kapstein), Jim O’Brien (Debbie), Denise Masciarelli, and Chris O’Brien (Stephanie Carbone Hackett). She is also survived by her son Bobby’s fiancée, Tammie Mangano, and the mothers of her grandchildren, Julie O’Brien and Rose Oyola.

Her thirteen cherished grandchildren include: Eric O’Brien (Jonna Patak), Danielle O’Brien, Brianna O’Brien (Dave Sabol), Emma, Garrett, Sarah Kapstein-O’Brien, Mariah Matthews (Pat), Dante Masciarelli, Brennan O’Brien, Madelyn O’Brien, Morgan O’Brien, Trenton Kosalek, and Dylan Roberts.

Additionally, she is survived by her five great-grandchildren—Bailey, Parker, and PJ Matthews, along with Gia Rose O’Brien and Asher Sabol—who were the lights of her life.

Virginia is also survived by her sister, Rita Huse (Joe); her brothers, Vince (Mary) and Tony DeNinis; and the families of Oak Street, who meant so much to her, especially the beloved Mack family. She is remembered by several cherished nieces, nephews, extended family members, and friends.

Virginia was never far from a telephone, earning her the nickname of “CNN” within the family as she was the go-to news reporter and weather woman. Her family members will cherish the countless voicemails she left them throughout the years. When Virginia was not on the phone, she could be found in the kitchen making her delicious homemade dishes, such as lasagna, ravioli, gnocchi, and pizzelles. She always insisted everyone “mangiare” (eat). Her endless love went beyond her family, as she extended love and empathy to everyone she met, often trying to connect with new acquaintances by discovering who their relatives were and if she knew them. Virginia’s loyalty and admiration for her family and friends were truly inspiring; she had an incredible capacity to accept others and was always reflecting her deep concern for everyone’s well-being.

She went on to raise three generations with patience and grace, and heavily cherished milestones for each and every one of them. From birthday parties, football and lacrosse games to Christmas Eve and other special occasions, Virginia loved celebrating with her family and always made it a point to do so. Whenever she was with her family, love was evident; there was always laughter, and, of course, plenty of food to share. She loved her family deeply from the bottom of her soul, and that love was reciprocated.

Virginia dedicated herself to making her family her legacy, ensuring that her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren would thrive and carry this love forward for generations to come. In this way, her love will endure forever.

The family wishes to express their heartfelt gratitude to the Memory Care Unit at Vestal Park, especially to Karrissa, Jaeline, Emma, Brielle and Cristi for the exceptional care they provided to Virginia and her family. Your love and support meant more than you could ever know.

Riposa in pace, mamma cara (Rest in peace, dear mother)

Non ti dimenticheremo mai (We will never forget you)

Per sempre nei nostri cuori (Forever in our hearts)

Visitation will take place on Monday, July 28, 2025, from 9:00 AM - 10:15AM at St. Mary’s of the Assumption Church, located at 37 Fayette Street, Binghamton, NY. A Funeral Service will follow at 10:30 AM. Burial will occur afterwards at Calvary Cemetery.

In memory of Virginia, please consider making a donation to Alzheimer's Research at www.alz.org. 

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