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BORN
1929
DIED
2022
Mary O'Connor Obituary
Peacefully passed away on December 22, 2022.
Mary was born on July 10, 1929, in Brantford, Ontario, to James and Alice (Holt) Merrill as one of six children. She raised her own tuition to attend Catholic high school and advanced to business college in Brantford. In July of 1948, Mary married Richard O'Connor and began a lifelong devotion to her family. Becoming U.S. Citizens in 1967, with stints in Cincinnati and Flint, MI, Mary and Rich became Dayton residents in 1980. Professionally, Mary held administrative assistant positions in schools, and retail and financial services firms. Mary was an accomplished master gardener, a volunteer to many schools, churches and charitable organizations and a long-time member of the New Neighbors League of Dayton. Mary was instantly recognizable in the community by her warm smile, exuberant spirit and welcoming generosity.
Mary is survived by "the love of her life" husband Rich, four children, Karyn O'Connor of Mashpee, MA, Kimberly Shields (Michael) of Centerville, Douglas O'Connor of Dayton and Daniel O'Connor (Nicole Gianuglou) of Oakwood; five grandchildren, Kelli Hampton, Ryan Hampton, Katherine (Shields) Collins, David Shields and Edie O'Connor; and two great-grandchildren, Bennett and Emilia Collins.
A memorial service will be held at Woodland Cemetery Mausoleum, 118 Woodland Ave., Dayton, OH, on Friday, December 30, 2022. Welcoming from 2:00 p.m. with a short informal remembrance at 2:45. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Mary's name to Hospice of Dayton Foundation, 324 Wilmington Ave., Dayton, OH 45420.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Mary O'Connor
3 Entries
Carolyn S. Wilson
December 22, 2023
Mary's vibrant & energetic personality brightened up all my days. As a neighbor she was always welcoming & loved tea & a glass of good French wine. Rich & she had tea time every day. I cannot look at their home now & not see them still there. Sadly missed but her spirit will always live on...
The Merriweathers
December 30, 2022
We wish you all peace and comfort as you grieve for our dear Mary. Sending prayers for strength and hugs for your heavy hearts. Much love, The Merriweathers
Carolyn S Wilson
December 29, 2022
I had not stop grieving when Rich & Mary moved recently from our neighborhood. Now, we lose Mary. When I bought my house close to theirs, we became fast friends; Mary & I enjoying gardening & French wine, & Rich making numerous pieces of furniture for me. So welcoming at all times & always that warm smile & twinkle in her eye, fly with the angels my friend...Much love, Carolyn Wilson
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