William "Jay" Joseph O'Hern III

William “Jay” Joseph O’Hern III, 81, of Cleveland, NY, passed away Saturday at home. Born in Syracuse and raised in Fairmount, he graduated from West Genesee High School in 1963.

As a young man, Jay witnessed the rapid suburban growth of his once-pastoral hometown, which shaped his lifelong concern for the preservation of open spaces. He often asked, “How important is it to preserve open land for tomorrow’s children?” Saddened by the loss of farms and wildlife habitats, Jay believed deeply in the need to balance human progress with care for the natural world and the heritage left to future generations. This thinking led to a lifelong belief in protecting rural land.

After high school, Jay worked at Solvay Process, married Bette Kelsey, and later earned a bachelor’s degree from SUNY Oswego in 1970. That same year, he moved to the Camden area and began his career with Camden Central School District, where he taught middle school for more than 30 years before retiring in 2004. He also worked as a carpenter during the summers and operated several small businesses.

An avid outdoorsman, Jay was a member of the Adirondack 46ers, the Adirondack Mountain Club, the Atwell Fish and Game Club, and the North Shore Sportsman’s Club. In addition, he was a member of the Old Forge and Inlet Historical Society. Jay was also a former member of St. Luke’s Episcopal Church in Camillus. He enjoyed outdoor sports and authored numerous books about the Adirondacks. Jay valued the connections he maintained with former students, but, most of all, cherished time with his family.

Jay was predeceased by his parents, William and Marjorie; and sister and brother-in-law, Judy and John Meagher.

Surviving are his wife of 61 years, Bette; children, William IV (Erica) of Fairmount, Susan (Jimmy) Steverman of Cleveland, NY, Michael (Dianne) of Camillus, Thomas (Laurie) of Cleveland, NY, and Kerry (Mike) Suppa of Canastota; 12 grandchildren; one great-granddaughter; and nephew, Jamie Meagher of Las Vegas, NV.

A private service will be held at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to the Adirondack Mountain Club, www.adk.org or plant a tree in honor of Jay’s memory.