On Sunday, August 16, 2020, the world lost some of its beauty when Mary Eileen Janell (O’Connor) took her last breath, at age 77. She was a wonderful wife, mother, grandmother, mentor, and friend. She was born March 14, 1943. She grew up in Waterbury, CT and resided in Woodbury, CT and Naples, FL. She and her husband Joe spent 62 awe-inspiring years loving each other and built a wonderful life together – accomplishing dreams, conquering obstacles, and raising a family – who are their legacy.
Mary graduated from Waterbury Hospital School of Nursing, and then went on to obtain her bachelor’s and master’s degrees from SCSU. She served as a lieutenant in the U.S. Air Force Nurse Corps at Lackland Air Force Base, worked for 19 years as an OR Nurse at Saint Mary’s Hospital, and then worked for almost 25 years at Danbury Hospital as the Director for the School of Surgical Technology before retiring. She changed lives and cared for many, selflessly devoted to helping people.
There are no words that can describe Mary – she was vivacious, fierce, compassionate, brave, soulful, and kind. She loved unconditionally, with every ounce of her heart and soul. She had an innate ability to see the best in people and to help them see it too and gave the best advice. She made countless memories with her family, who she cherished. She took dance classes, and then taught and choreographed dance for years, alongside her daughter, who was also her best friend. She made every second count.
Mary was predeceased by her sons Michael and Joseph and also her grandson Reilly, with whom she is dancing in Heaven. She is survived by her beloved husband Joseph, her loving daughter and son-in-law Amy and John Polmon, her cherished grandchildren Irelynn Janell and Austin and Bailey Polmon, Joe’s partner in life Karen Janell, her brother and sister, nieces and nephews, and extended family. She takes a piece of our hearts with her, and is now our guardian angel.
Funeral arrangements are being handled by Munson Lovetere in Southbury. Calling hours will be Thursday August 20, 2020 from 4-7 p.m. at the funeral home, located 235 Main St. N., Southhbury. Church services will be held outdoors on Friday August 21, 2020 at 11 a.m. directly at St. James Cemetery in Naugatuck, prior to burial. The family asks that you honor Mary by wearing your favorite summer colors, as she preferred brightness in the world. Donations in her honor may be made to Regional Hospice 30 Milestone Rd, Danbury, CT 06810, who cared for her in her final days with tenderness, compassion, and respect.
To leave an online condolence please visit www.munsonloveterefuneralhome.com.
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