Mary Ann Kelly

By Tom Rivers, Editor Posted 15 January 2022 at 11:51 am

MEDINA – Mary Ann Kelly, 78, entered into rest on Friday, Jan. 14, 2022 at the Villages of Orleans Health & Rehab Center in Albion. Born February 26, 1943 in Medina, Mary Ann was the daughter of the late John W. and Alice (O’Brien) Kelly.

She was a graduate of Medina High School in the class of 1960. On April 24, 1965 she married Robert F. Bessel and together raised two children. A devout Catholic, Mary Ann was a lifelong parishioner of Holy Trinity Parish, St. Mary’s Church in Medina. Early on in life she worked for Cooks Wholesale in Medina, then for Fisher-Price Toys and finally for BernzOmatic. Mary Ann loved gardening, doing crafts and especially spending time with her grandchildren.

In addition to her parents she was predeceased by her brother, John W. “Bill” Kelly, Jr. in 1971; and former husband, Robert Bessel in 1992.

Survivors include her daughter, Kelly (Michael) Bice of Watertown; son, Jason (Joleen) Bessel of Medina; grandchildren, Megan and Hannah Oram, Olivia and Johnathan Bessel; step-grandchildren, Dylan and Kassidy Bice; several nieces and nephews; and special friend, Ann Bane.

Calling hours will be held on Thursday, Jan. 20, from 5 to 8 p.m. at Cooper Funeral Home, 215 W. Center St., Medina. Her Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Friday, Jan. 21, at 11 a.m. at Holy Trinity Parish, St. Mary’s Church, 211 Eagle St., Medina. Interment in St. Mary’s Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the Alzheimer’s Association at www.alz.org, North Country Troopers Assisting Troops at www.nnytroopers.com or to a charity of one’s choice. Share memories and condolences at www.cooperfuneralhome.com.