Mary A. O'Hara

Mary A. O'Hara, 77, of Clay, passed away peacefully at home on April 30, 2025, surrounded by her loved ones. Mary was born in Syracuse, New York on January 19, 1948, to the late Emery “John” and Olga Sappington. Mary held onto her compassion, kindness, beauty, and most importantly, love for family and friends until the very end. 

During her 77 years with us, her beautiful smile and sense of humor never failed to brighten a space. She was always present and supportive in every milestone and accomplishment of her family. 

Mary graduated in 1966 from North Syracuse High School. She married Robert O’Hara on May 29, 1968, at St. John the Baptist Ukrainian Church. The two were each other’s lifelong companions and friends. They were blessed with two children: Timothy and Jamie. 

Mary was a devoted wife and mother. She became a familiar figure as a second mother to many of the neighborhood kids, forging lifelong friendships. 

In her free time, Mary enjoyed skiing, traveling, and spending time with her grandchildren. She could always be found behind a camera, capturing blissful times and cherished memories. 

She was predeceased by her parents, Emery “John” and Olga Sappington; sister, Julia Rioux (Sappington); brother, Richard “Dick” Sappington; mother-in-law, Mary E. O’Hara; great niece, Summer Rioux. 

She is survived by her husband, Robert C. O'Hara; sons, Timothy O’Hara (Erin Duerr) and Jamie O’Hara; sister, Betty Patchett (John); brother-in-law John “Jack” O’Hara (Kathy Leihs); grandchildren, Caitlyn O’Hara (David Harold), Breannan O’Hara, Jillian O’Hara; great grandchild Theodore Harold; a niece, several nephews, great nephews and great nieces. 

Services will be private for the family. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Hospice of Central New York & of the Finger Lakes. 

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