It is with sadness and fond remembrance that we announce that Mary (Minnie) Vail Tupper Breithaupt, a cherished mother, grandmother, and friend, passed away peacefully on March 19, 2024, at the age of 80. Born on July 19, 1943, Minnie was a beacon of light, laughter, and a little bit of mischief. A hallmark of Minnie's life was her lifelong bond with her childhood friends. Their connection was a testament to the power of friendship, kept alive through decades of change, distance, and life's various challenges. These bonds, as well as several steadfast friendships she made as an adult, were sources of immense joy and support for Minnie, and she often remarked that they were her "chosen family," alongside her beloved biological family. Minnie's pastimes were a reflection of her vibrant personality. On the golf course, she played with a determination to make every shot count, mirroring her approach to life. She lovingly cared for countless cats over her life, even taking in several strays along the way. Knitting wasn't just a hobby; it was an expression of her creativity, each stitch imbued with her characteristic zest and flair and usually turned into gifts for friends and family. She was able to turn her artistic eye into a career, as well, working in several art galleries and as a merchandiser for several national brands. Minnie's legacy is lovingly carried on by her children, Mark and Cynthia, her daughter-in-law, Karolina, son-in-law, Todd, and her two grandchildren, Sage and Evan, along with countless lifelong friends and family members. As we remember Minnie, let's honor her by living life with a hearty laugh, a kind deed, and a never-quit attitude. Minnie, here's to you and the countless memories you've knitted into the fabric of our lives. Cheers to a life well-lived and a person dearly loved. A celebration of life will be announced at a later date. In lieu of flowers, Minnie would want donations made to your chosen local animal shelter or to the ASPCA (https://secure.aspca.org/donate/memorial) or to the John Hopkins Alzheimer's Disease Research Center

Mary (Minnie) Vail Tupper Breithaupt Favorite cousin It is very hard to not think of Minnie in a great positive way. I was born on March 30, 1943 and Minnie was born on July 19, 1943. We lived in the same town until she went away to college and I moved to Southampton. We would spend Thanksgiving at my family’s house and Christmas was always spent at her family’s house. We spent summers in Southampton at my grandfather’s estate on Peconic Bay. We were always together and I don’t remember her ever being anything but fun. Minnie got married and moved to central New Jersey to raise her family, Mark and Cynthia. I lost touch with Minnie for a while. I would still see her in Southampton when she came out to visit. When she came, it was always fun because she would bring her friends who were always the most attractive girls in our class. She remained friends with this group all her life. My wife and I built a house in Beaufort, S.C. in 2006. Minnie came to visit and soon after found and purchased a house of her own It was great having her here until she started showing signs of her illness. Her children came to take her to Illinois where she would be closer to them and they could be of more help to her. Minnie always looked beautiful. We will miss her and her wonderful personality. Love, Billy