Obituaries

Joan B Elsey O’Mara, 80 of Bridgeport passed away on December 11, 2024, at her home.

She was born in Indianapolis, Indiana on December 26, 1943, a daughter of the late John F. Elsey Sr. and Pauline ‘May’ Elsey.

She married her husband James Patrick O’Mara on July, 14 1961. They spent 58 loving years together until his passing in 2019.

They moved their family from Indiana to West Virgina in 1966 where they raised their four children in the Mountain State. Some of their fondest memories were attending Mountaineer games as a family where they hosted legendary tailgates. In her early years she dedicated her life to raising her children. She then found joy working at the Elder-Beerman home store where she made many close friends. She truly loved her job and helping people until her retirement. She always put everyone first.

Joan’s greatest joy was her 10 grandchildren and11 great grandchildren. She spent many years attending basketball tournaments, football and baseball games, dance recitals, track meets, volleyball and countless school functions. Nothing brought her more joy than her family. Though small in stature, her huge heart, fierce personality and infectious smile never went unnoticed. She will be deeply missed by all who knew her. Heaven gained an angel.

She is survived by her four children. Kelly Ash of Bridgeport, Mary Powers (Jerry) of Bridgeport, Patrick O’Mara (Sherry) of Clarksburg and Jennifer O’Mara (Kevin Curry) of Bridgeport; 10 grandchildren, RJ Powers (Katie Stoner) of Morgantown, Ryan Powers (Sarah) of Bridgeport, Logan Ash of Bridgeport, Luke Ash of Bridgeport, Trey O’Mara (Adriane) of Clarksburg, Jenna Schwartzmiller (Jay) of Morgantown, Katie Brown (Fraser) of North Carolina, Owen O’Mara of Clarksburg, Zachary Renquest of Bridgeport and Hunter Renquest (Rebecca) of Pittsburgh ; 11 great grandchildren, Adalyn, Harper and Finley Powers. Declan, Rauri and Lochlain O’Mara, Landon Harbert, Vivian and Brooks Brown, Anthony Schwartzmiller, and Ava Renquest.
She is also survived by her brother John F. Elsey Jr., Indianapolis and sisters, Jeannie Steadham, Flordia and Susie Johnson (Doug) of Indianapolis; brothers-in-law Mike O’Mara of Indianapolis, Tim O’Mara (Kris) of North Carolina; and sisters-in-law Kathy Vondersaar (Rob) and Therese O’Mara (Steve) all of Indianapolis; and many nieces and nephews that just adored her.

In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband of 58 years, James Patrick O’Mara; her son-in-law James Matthew Ash, sister Kathy Jacobs, and two sisters-in-laws Jan O’Mara and Sister Mary Joan Scheller; and two nephews Alex Givens and Josh Johnson.

Joan’s family would also like to thank her caregivers. Gwen Murray, Traci Gregory, Vicki Perris and Amy Seckman. Not only did they give her superb care, but they also became part of the family.

Family and friends may call at the Amos Carvelli Funeral Home, 201 Edison Street, Nutter Fort on Monday from 3:00 pm to 7:00 pm, where Catholic Burial Rites will be held on Tuesday, December 17, 2024 at 11:00 am with Father Casey Mahone presiding. Interment will be in the Bridgeport Cemetery

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that a memorial contribution be made to the Alzheimer’s Association, West Virginia chapter, PO Box 18485, South Charleston, WV 25303.

Expressions of sympathy may be extended to the family at www.amoscarvelli.com. A service of Amos Carvelli Funeral Home.