Obituary of Marlene Ann O'Neill

Marlene (Francia) O’Neill, 79, of Versailles, KY, formerly of Homer and Tully, NY, passed away at home holding the hands of her daughter and her husband on September 6, 2023 after an 18 month battle with cancer.

Born in Massena, NY on June 25, 1944, Marlene was vivacious and highspirited. She had an impish nature that made her the favorite cousin. Jerry first met the loud social girl on the school bus. Eventually, she charmed her way into his heart; they wed on April 20, 1963, moving to the Syracuse area later that year. In the early years of their marriage, Marlene was a homemaker raising her four children and meticulously caring for their home; she was known as an amazing cook and the mom who had a homemade dessert every night. After her youngest child started school, she pursued a career as a computer programer at Niagara Mohawk (now National Grid), retiring in 1995.

Besides her husband, Jerry, Marlene is survived by one daughter: Keri (Michael) Moran of Denver, CO, three sons: Darren (Lisa) of Tully, NY, David (Pam) of Frederick, MD, and Ryan (Patricia) of New Market, MD, and eight grandchildren: Austin and Ryan Moran, Danielle (Christopher) Todd, Kara, John, Alexa, Michael and Myla O’Neill. Her great-granddaughter is due in early 2024.

Marlene was the epitome of a daughter, wife, mother, grandmother and friend. When her children were young, Marlene’s welcoming nature drew the friends of all of her children to congregate at the O’Neill household. She had a knack for sparking up a conversation with a stranger and becoming instant friends. Marlene had an unmatched stamina for shopping; it wasn’t uncommon for her to go for a 10 hour stretch or stop at “just one more store” which, of course, was never just one. Marlene’s warm and generous heart was felt instantaneously by everyone who had the privilege to cross her path. She was the favorite aunt, the best friend, and the beloved Nana. Marlene was the center of her family and cherished by her loving husband. She will be remembered for her feisty nature, witty humor, and acceptance of others just as they are. She was unapologetically herself which made her that much more endearing.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the American Cancer Society on the web at: donate.cancer.org, by calling 1-800-227-2345 or by mail: American Cancer Society, P.O. Box 6704, Hagerstown, MD 21741. A Funeral Mass will be held on Saturday September 16th at 11:00 at the Church of the Nativity at St. Leo’s, 10 Onondaga Street, Tully NY followed by a luncheon at 12:30 at The Loft at Vesper Hills Restaurant, 4291 Octagon Road, Tully. Burial will be private.