August 21, 1944 – November 21, 2025
“Where there is deep grief, there was great love” – Unknown
Olean- With saddened hearts, the family of Anne B. Kinsey announces her passing on Friday, November 21, 2025, where she was surrounded by the love of family and friends as she finished her journey on earth and joined loved ones in Heaven.
Anne was born on August 21, 1944, in Rochester, New York, to Chauncey and Mary (Mitchell) Kinsey. Upon graduating from Smethport High School in 1962, Anne attended the Olean Business Institute, where she studied business and executive secretarial skills.
On November 29, 1963, in Charlotte, North Carolina, she married Joseph F. Hirsch. The couple made their home in Western New York and eventually welcomed the birth of two daughters, Mary and Susan.
She was employed as an elementary guidance secretary at Portville Central School from 1974 to 1979. In 1980, she moved to Georgia and worked in the secretarial department for professional golfer Arnold Palmer.
Anne moved to Charlotte, North Carolina, and accepted a position of executive assistant to the President of Cook and Boardman, Inc., where she remained with the company from 1982 to 2007. While working at Cook and Boardman, Inc., she became a member of the National Association of Women in Construction. Upon her retirement, Anne moved back to the Olean area to be closer to family and long-time friends.
Throughout her life, Anne embraced the opportunity to travel to Switzerland, Germany, and Poland, where she enjoyed learning about each country’s history and cultures. Anne continued her love of singing as a first soprano from her high school choir to numerous church choirs. She also had the honor of performing in a distinguished choral concert while touring parts of Europe.
Anne will be remembered for her kind soul, quiet determination, and her ability to adapt to life’s changes in a dignified and admirable manner. She could always be found with a book in hand and acquired an extensive collection of reading materials. Anne always made sure she was dressed for the occasion, and her signature scarves, heels, and red lipstick added that something special to her appearance.
Anne found joy in simple, everyday gestures; creating and cultivating friendships and relationships her entire life. This was evidenced by her 70-year friendship with David and Connie Razey of Portville.
Always a teacher at heart, Anne enjoyed teaching Sunday School classes and Summer Vacation Bible School to young children at various churches throughout her life. In recent years, she was a member of the St. Stephen’s Episcopal Church, where she served on the Church Vestry and participated in Bible Study groups.
Anne was most proud of her grandchildren. She faithfully attended numerous concert bands, jazz bands, orchestra, and choral concerts as well as play performances and sporting events.
She is survived by her daughters, Mary Hirsch-Schena (Olean), Susan (Mark) Bokman (Olean), and grandchildren, Ryan Bokman, Mathew Bokman, Lily Schena, and a brother, Dr. William Kinsey of Charlotte, North Carolina.
Anne was predeceased by her parents, former husband, and brother-in-law.
Friends and family will be received on Wednesday, November 26, 2025, from 11 a.m. to 12 pm at the Guenther Funeral Home, Inc., 1303 E. State St., Olean, with a funeral service at 12 p.m. at the funeral home.
Memorials may be made to St. Stephen’s Episcopal Church, Olean, New York.
The family wishes to extend a heartfelt appreciation to Anne’s extended family at the Pines Healthcare and Rehab Center in Olean, New York. A special thank you to Philip Schena for his many visits and conversations with Anne.
Online condolences can be expressed at www.guentherfh.com
