Kristen Marcellus O'Hara

Kristen Marcellus O'Hara, 69, of Camillus, passed away peacefully at home on Monday. Born in Syracuse, she was a graduate of Jamesville-DeWitt High School and attended Syracuse University.

Kristen was a woman of deep faith, creativity, and unwavering love for her family. She found joy in serving her community and expressing herself through the arts. Her life was a beautiful testament to compassion, joy, and resilience.

Chairman of the Amber Beach Parade at Otisco Lake in the 1990s, Kristen was also proud of the Vacation Bible School program at St. Joseph's Church, always bringing energy and enthusiasm to everything she did. She had a natural gift for event planning, and she cherished organizing weddings and family gatherings, especially those held on the shores of Otisco Lake, where she created a lifetime of memories with loved ones.

Kristen's true passion lay in the arts, particularly in musical theater and painting. As a young girl, she began writing music, including an original song titled “No One Can Change the World but God." She went on to be involved in the Syracuse University Drama Department where her creative talents continued to flourish.

From 1999 to 2005, Kristen worked as a Special Education teaching assistant and yearbook advisor at West Genesee High School, where she touched many lives with her kind heart and encouraging spirit.

From 2005 to 2018, Kristen was the Director of Religious Education at St. Joseph’s Church, which held a very special place in her lifetime. These years were filled with deep friendships and great purpose, while staying connected to her faith first.

Kristen's favorite role in life, however, was that of wife, mother, grandmother, and sister. Her greatest joy came from spending time with her children and grandchildren, alongside her beloved husband, Tim. Whether it was family card games, where she remained undefeated at pitch until her final days, or quiet moments by the lake, Kristen cherished every memory.

Even in the face of a cancer diagnosis in 2020, Kristen lived by her favorite quotes: "Preach the Gospel at all times, and when necessary, use words," and "It's all good!" (Thanks to her dear friend, Father Greg.) These words guided her through every challenge with grace and positivity.

Kristen was immensely proud of her children and grateful for a life filled with love, laughter, and unforgettable moments.

Kristen was deeply appreciative of the outstanding care she received from all the amazing doctors, nurses, and caretakers.

Kristen was predeceased by her parents, Donald and Carol Marcellus; brother, Donald Marcellus; and in-laws, Edward and Lucille O'Hara.

Surviving are her husband of 41years, Timothy; sons, Eamon (Nina) O’Hara of Nolensville, TN, and Erinn (Caroline) O’Hara of Houston, TX; and daughter, Maggie (Dave Bucci) O’Hara of Austin, TX. Known affectionately as "Gigi and "Zaza," she adored her grandchildren, Madison, Charlotte, Avery, Jackson, Noah, and Leighton and eagerly anticipated the arrival of her newest grandchild. In addition, she is survived by her sisters, Laurie (Kevin) Donahue and Mary (Tom) Lynch; many beloved nieces and nephews; as well as several other loving relatives and amazing friends.

To celebrate Kristen’s life, relatives and friends are invited to gather on Friday, July 18, 2025, from 4 to 7 p.m. at the Buranich Funeral Home, 5431 W. Genesee St., Camillus.’

A funeral Mass will be celebrated on Saturday, July 19, 2025, at 10 a.m. in St. Joseph’s Church, 5600 W. Genesee St., Camillus.

Kristen will be laid to rest in St. Mary’s Cemetery, Skaneateles.

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to St. Joseph’s Church Food Pantry, 5600 W. Genesee St., Camillus, NY 13031, or checks payable to “Jefferson”, Office of Institutional Advancement Department 825434 (MRIE), In Memory of Kristen O’Hara, P.O. Box 71331, Philadelphia, PA 19176-1331. Melanoma Research Institute of Excellence-