Jennie (Finocchiaro) Whitney passed away peacefully on May 19, 2026, at the age of 96, after living a long, beautiful, and fulfilling life.

Born to Anthony and Mary Finocchairo, Jennie was raised in Penfield, New York, on her family’s beloved farm. She treasured her childhood surrounded by animals, helping tend the farm, and selling fresh vegetables at the family farm stand. She was predeceased by her siblings Pauline Valenti, Joseph Finocchiaro, and Santo Finocchiaro.

Jennie was a devoted mother of four whose greatest joy was caring for her family. She loved volunteering at her children’s schools and taking part in their activities and milestones. While she dedicated herself to being a loving homemaker, she also spent many years working part-time for the Rochester Police Department as a crossing guard, where she became a familiar and caring presence in the community.

Jennie had a special gift for making a house feel like home. She enjoyed cooking for family gatherings and was especially known for her outstanding baking skills. Her trays of Italian Christmas cookies became a treasured tradition admired and enjoyed by all who knew her. She also found great joy in flower gardening and took pride in her stunning rose and hydrangea gardens. A lifelong animal lover, Jennie loved many pet cats over the years but held a special place in her heart for her beloved kitties, Timmy 1 and Timmy 2.

Jennie was predeceased by her husband, Robert Whitney, with whom she shared many happy years filled with love, laughter, and family memories. Together they enjoyed spending time with their children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. They were devoted Catholics and enjoyed attending faith services together. They also loved evenings out dancing and dining, relaxing days at their cottage, and always looked forward to their cherished annual trips to Cape Cod.

Jennie was also predeceased by her son, Joseph Lanzalaco. She is lovingly remembered by her children, Gail (George) Lampman, Mark (Alisa) Lanzalaco, and Joy (James) Ryan. She will be deeply missed by her grandchildren, Janel (Daron) McKee, Dennis (Kathleen) Furioso, Sophia Lanzalaco, Perry Lanzalaco, and Jace Ryan. Her memory will also live on through her treasured great-grandchildren, Estée McKee, Dean McKee, and Talullah Furioso.

Jennie’s warmth, kindness, devotion to family, and love of life will forever remain in the hearts of all who knew and loved her.

The family would like to extend their heartfelt gratitude to the caring staff at Episcopal SeniorLife Communities on Mt. Hope Avenue for their compassion, support, and dedicated care.

Jennie’s life story will be shared during visitation 4-7PM on Tuesday, May 26th, at the funeral home. Her Graveside Service will take place at 11AM on Wednesday, May 27th at Holy Sepulchre Cemetery.