Obituary of Rosemarie Bridget McNelis (O'Brien, Wilson)

A loving mother, sister, and friend to many people and more than a few dogs, passed away at Highland Hospital on 8/27/2024, due to complications from dementia.

She was born in Hornell, NY in 1942 to John and Ellen O’Brien and attended St Ann’s school there.  Upon graduation she began working for the phone company and moved to Rochester, sharing a one bathroom, 3 bedroom, apartment with 4 of her friends. Chaos ensued and lots of laughs were had by all 5 of them!

She eventually met and married John Wilson, gaining a son and daughter in addition to having two boys of her own.  Rosemarie and John ran a successful business together for many years.  They divorced in 2000.  She later married Mark McNelis, gaining another daughter. They divorced a number of years later.

She is survived by her children, Kathleen, Mark (Maria), Greg (Alyssa), Paul (Courtney), Meghan (Matt); grandchildren, Michael (Michelle), Rebekah, Savannah, Aiden, Nora and Theo.

She leaves behind great memories and lots of life lessons with many nieces, nephews, godchildren, and many family members and friends that loved her.  Rose had a soft spot for animals her entire life.  She provided homes to countless dogs over the years making each one a member of the family.  She was a prolific reader of true crime novels.

She will be missed by family and friends alike.  Rosemarie was preceded in death by her parents, John and Ellen, and both her siblings, Jim and Liz.

Friends may call 2-4, 6-8 Thursday, Sept. 5 at Willard H. Scott Funeral Home, 12 South Ave., Webster.  Mass  of Christian Burial 12:00 Noon Friday., Sept 6 at St John’s of Rochester Church, 8 Wickford Way, Fairport, with food and refreshments to follow at Flaherty’s.

A short graveside service will be held at 11:00 AM Saturday, September 7 at St Mary’s Cemetery in Hornell with food and refreshments to follow at the Southside in Hornell.

Flowers are always welcome, if so inclined, or donations to Lollypop Farm would be greatly appreciated.