Mary Anne McKelvey Willett, formerly of Rome, NY, passed away unexpectedly onOctober 22, 2019. She was bornJuly 30, 1953to Jeanette and Eugene Tully McKelvey who preceded her in death.
She married her true love, James Donald Willett onJanuary 4, 1975. A graduate of Rome Catholic High School and Syracuse University, Mary Anne worked her entire career at the Central New York DDSO as an Audiologist caring for special needs children and adults. She and her husband James eventually retired to Georgia to be close to their two children, Kristen and Jimmy.
Mary Anne was the most beloved wife and mother. She was everything a mother should be; kind, patient, selfless, encouraging, and unconditional in her love. Her favorite role was as Mimi to her five grandchildren: Peyton, Mason, Elle, Noah and Miles. She shined in their eyes and her love for them is irreplaceable. She loved BIG and she is immeasurably missed. There are no words great enough to describe her life or the legacy of love she left behind.
She was an avid Syracuse Orange sports fan and rarely missed watching their games.She loved reading, traveling, shopping and spoiling her grandchildren with gifts. Her favorite times were at the beach with her family.
She is survived by her loving husband of 44 years, James D Willett; her children, Kristen Willett Mitchell (Steven Mitchell) and James Jimmy Willett (Angela Daves Willett); her sister, Valerie Clark (Robert Clark); and her grandchildren, Peyton Mitchell (9), Mason Mitchell (6), Elle Mitchell (4), Noah Willett (3) and Miles Willett (1).
May God hold you until we can again! We love you more than anything.
Ingram Funeral Home and Crematory, 210 Ingram Ave., Cumming, GA 30040 is in charge of arrangements.
Tributes
Deb Quattrini wrote on Nov 24, 2019:
"Where do I begin, what do I say, To honor my friend, in my own special way.Over 33 years, we shared our joys and our sorrows, I always believed , we'd have many more tomorrows.Whether at work, or on our own time, Your understanding and advice , usually better than mine.You were so, so smart, your words I will treasure, Your love and friendship, it went beyond measure.We laughed and cried, we had so much fun, You had more to do here, your work was not done.But life is not fair, God took you away, You'll always be with me, and that I do pray. Rest In Peace my friend MaryAnne. I love you"
Kathy McDonald wrote on Nov 19, 2019:
"Worked with Mary Anne for many, many years at DDSO. Started before we graduated college! We had some great times. She was always giving us family updates. She was so proud of her family! She was the ultimate professional and had a great sense of humor as well!!! She will be missed!"
Janette wrote on Nov 9, 2019:
"Jim and family I was heartbroken to hear about your loss. Mary Anne was one of my first friends when I moved to Rome to work at Rome Developmental Center In 1980 , We shared many great years. Mary Anne was a special blend of kindness, compassion, humor and integrity. She loved those she served and always had a smile and kind word. She was always ready to lend a hand or an ear for anyone needing it. She was so very proud of her family and I know how much you will miss her. Please hold the memories close for comfort and know that she will never be forgotten by those of us who are fortunate enough to have known her and called her friend With deepest sympathy and prayers , Janette Muttillo"
Ella Alsheimer wrote on Nov 8, 2019:
"It was truly a blessing to have known Mary Anne when I worked at the Rome DDSO. I have especially fond memories of chatting with her in her office at Walsh. She was always welcoming, listened intently and offered a sense of peace and camaraderie. She had a sincere compassion for the folks we served. May memories of precious moments keep her forever alive in the hearts of those who knew her."
Cindy (Cieslewitz) Hert wrote on Nov 1, 2019:
"I was so sad to hear about Mary Anne. I will always remember Mary Anne being so kind to Andy and Jill when we lived next door to each other in New York and swimming with them in the pool. Im so sorry for your loss."
Donna and Dave Calandra wrote on Oct 31, 2019:
"Jim you and your family are in our thoughts and prayers for the loss of Mary Anne"
Donna and Dave Calandra wrote on Oct 31, 2019:
"Jim keeping you and your family in our thoughts and prayers for the loss of your wife, Mary Anne"
Chuck & Linda DeMola wrote on Oct 30, 2019:
"Jim, Our prayers are with you and family during this difficult time. We want you to know how much you and Mary Anne meant to us and how she will be missed. We are here for you my friend."
Alan Spindler wrote on Oct 30, 2019:
"Jim,My thoughts and prayers to you, Kristen, Jimmy and all of your family. Words cannever adequately express the deep condolences I want to send your way. I hopethe many wonderful memories Mary Anne left all of you will help in this difficult time.Alan"
Dale & Bonnie Zdziebko (Rome NY) wrote on Oct 29, 2019:
"So sorry Jim and family on the loss of your wife, mother and grandmother. Dale and I express you sincere sympathy.Bless you all. "
Don & Linda Marino wrote on Oct 29, 2019:
"Jimmy and family, please except our sincere condolences on MaryAnnes untimely passing. Out thoughts and prayers are with you."
Rich and Kathy Green wrote on Oct 28, 2019:
"Jim. Kathy and I would like to extend our most heartfelt sympathy to you and your family. Mary Anne was truly a sweetheart and no one knows that better than you and your family. She left you with wonderful memories to help ease the sorrow and comfort you during these times. It's our faith that we will all meet again. Until then, God bless you and your family."
SharonErnenwein wrote on Oct 27, 2019:
"Prayers for you and your family"
Tina conover wrote on Oct 27, 2019:
"So sorry to hear of Mary Anne's passing worked many years with her I am sure she will be missed"
Christine wrote on Oct 27, 2019:
"So very sorry to hear about Mary Anne's passing. I worked with her at Rome DDSO waaaay back in 1991. She and Deb were the greatest peeps to work with!! Mary Anne was so patient and kind. Christine Falitico"
Thomas Marcisofsky wrote on Oct 27, 2019:
"Jim and family,Please accept my deepest sympathy for your loss.May loving memories of Mary Ann bring you comfort and peace"
Carol Arbes wrote on Oct 27, 2019:
"Carol and Steve ArbesThere are no words to express the loss of Mary Anne. God bless her family at this time and give them strength."
Expression of Sympathy wrote on Oct 26, 2019:
"A Large Basket Garden was ordered on October 26, 2019"
Joan davis wrote on Oct 26, 2019:
"So sad such a great person, too young."
Denise Ankin wrote on Oct 26, 2019:
"I am so saddened to hear of MaryAnns passing. My thoughts and prayers are with you Jim and your family."
SANDY BUEHLER wrote on Oct 26, 2019:
"I WAS SO SORRY TO HEAR OF MARY ANNE'S PASSING,,,,,I HAVE FOND MEMORIES OF HER;; WHEN WE WORKED TOGETHER IN THE DDSO FOR MANY YEARS,,,, SHE WAS A KIND AND CARING PERSON, MY SYMPATHIES TO THE FAMILY. SANDY BUEHLER,,,,"
Kelly and Betty lou Hayes wrote on Oct 26, 2019:
"My heart is broken to hear of the passing of such a wonderful, loving woman. She was my second mom growing up. So loving and kind. My heart is with Mr. Willett, Kristen, Jimmy and their family's."