Our branch of the Doolittle family tree has lost the last remaining member of what many call the ‘Greatest Generation’. Mina D. Rathbun, born June 2nd 1918 in Binghamton, peacefully found the open arms of her Savior Jesus Christ at the Willow Point Nursing Home on July 8th 2015.

Mina was a long time resident and business owner in Binghamton, who lived happily as well for much of her childhood in Sidney, NY. She was a long time member of the Chenango St.- Centenary Methodist Church in Binghamton.

Mina was predeceased by her parents, Mark A and Clara Doolittle. Her brother Ralph Doolittle, sisters Inez Eaton, Cora Schofield, and Helen Wright. Also predeceased by nephews Doug, Frank and niece Grace and several cousins.  

She is survived by twenty nieces and nephews, and many, many great nieces and nephews. I’m sure some great, great as well. She is also survived by two long lived cousins, Frank and Richard of Bainbridge , NY.

Having no children of her own, we were all like her children, and so loved. Despite the distances, she maintained communication with us, and we with her. The telephone calls, cards, letters and visits were always precious to her. The celebration of her 97th birthday, this past June 2nd, with all of the above occurring through the day, led her to comment that is was one of the best days of her life.  

Throughout her life, in addition to her family, Mina held a special place in her heart for animals. Providing a safe haven for countless dogs and cats. Each one loved as the other. The last of her cats, being Chani, Dickens and Willy who she worried about above herself. She missed them terribly when they passed. Each animal special to her in his or her own way. Her bird feeder with each feathered visitor was always a joy to her as well.

Mina was the embodiment of that aforementioned ‘Greatest Generation’. Strong, independent and hard working. In the tradition of her era. She loved her family, her country and her church. No sacrifice was too much for those she loved. She was the Katherine Hepburn of our family. In a time when women did not commonly do so, she created and successfully maintained a professional career. Outspoken and never afraid to voice her opinions, and to those who had the honor to know and love her, understood that it was often her way, or the highway. As the Sinatra song went, she truly did it “Her Way” She was tiny, but so very strong. Trained and certified in Syracuse after World War II, she opened and maintained her Hair dressing business,  Madelene’s Beauty Shop, in Binghamton for over 40 years. She was an astute business woman, with the vast majority of her business being loyal customers of every generation. Always having a sweet smile and a welcoming demeanor to greet them.

The last 30 years of her life, her inner strength and will allowed her to overcome many health limitations. A strong and deeply religious woman, provided her many beloved nieces and nephews by example the many valuable lessons in living a worthy life. She always provided an open home, heart, a shoulder to cry or lean on and a patient, listening ear to us all. The cousins will long be lovingly telling and retelling their own stories of the trips and experiences she provided to so many of us. She will be greatly missed. Rest in peace dear aunt.

A special thank you to the caring, compassionate staff at the Willow Point Nursing home for providing a safe and secure place for Mina in the last months of her life. Special thanks as well, to those friends and family members that went far beyond the call of duty to make Mina’s world a better place in her last years.  God bless you for doing so.

Funeral arrangements will be provided by Hopler & Eschbach funeral home, at the Chenango St.-Centenary Methodist Church  on Monday July 13th. Visiting hours will be at 9:30 am, with service at 10:00am. Marcia Focht will officiate. Burial at Greenlawn cemetery in Bainbridge, NY  will follow.

For those not able to attend the service, a  celebration of Mina’s life will be held at a date to be determined in August. In lieu of flowers, if you wish, please make a donation to Chenango St. -Centenary Church or an animal shelter of your choice.

 Service Information