Josephine Ann O’Mara (Harding) or better known as JoAnne or Jody, age 82, passed away peacefully on February 15, 2021. She was born on Sunday, February 5, 1939 in Martinez, California to Ellen Josephine and Harry John Harding. She was born second to youngest amongst five brothers, and the only girl in her family. Harry Jr, Charles Joseph, Richard James, William Leon, and Thomas Eugene. There was nothing she valued more than family, and the relationships she had with each of her siblings, however; she was exceptionally close to her youngest brother Tom. The relationship they possessed for the last 80 years was exceptional.
After growing up in the Paso Robles area, the family eventually settled in Fresno, CA where JoAnne attended San Joaquin Memorial High school for three years. However; do to an unforeseen illness, she was unable to complete her high school education. At age 18, she took a job at St. Agnes Hospital to grow her knowledge as a nursing assistant. While pursuing her career as a nursing assistant she developed a passion for caring for the elderly. She loved her job until 1960 when she found something she loved even more, her husband Ronald O’Mara.
JoAnne and Ron met in the Fall of 1960 at Devine Gardens Bowling Alley in Modesto, California. JoAnne had gone to Modesto to visit her brother and sister-in-law when the group had gone to go bowling where Ron was employed at the time and that's where their love story began; the most beautiful love story ever written. Ron and JoAnne were married the next year on the 2nd of September in 1961. While residing in Modesto, Ron and JoAnne welcomed their first daughter, Patricia Louise O’Mara on the 7th of July in 1962. The family of three then moved back to Fresno, California in the summer of 1963. They then welcomed their second daughter Mary Elizabeth O’Mara on the 27th of April in 1964.
In 1964, she decided to end her career as a nursing assistant in order to dedicate all of her time to her family. She enjoyed nothing more than being a stay at home mom. She loved to sew and embroider outfit and cloths for her daughters, she enjoyed baking a variety of treats, walking her girls to and from school, volunteering at their school, and even babysitting the kids in the neighborhood. At the age of 59 as her kids turned into adults, JoAnne decided to again pursue her career and become a CNA at a local convalescent hospital. She enjoyed working with the elderly so much, and truly had a passion for it, until 2007, when she fully retired.
Nothing was more important to JoAnne than family. So when the family welcomed their first grandchild in 1983 she was overjoyed. Being a grandmother was a true dream come true for her and she gave her all to each and every one of them. She welcomed three grandchildren; Michael, David, and Danielle. She was the most patient, caring, compassionate and loving grandma. She was the first one to attend every event, performance, or recital; she never missed a moment of her grandchildren’s lives. She was also elated to welcome three great-grandchildren; Taylor, Tiffany, and Rae. Her great-grandchildren meant everything to her and will continue to exhibit her spirit through them.
My grandma was a pillar in our family, she truly gave all of her self to every one around her. She was never shy to speak her mind, or stand up for what she believed in. My grandma and grandpa were extremely dedicated Catholic servant attending Sacred Heart Catholic Church for over 47 years. They displayed their Irish heritage loud and proud, as well as their 49er memorabilia. Nothing brought more joy to my grandma than watching 49er games together with my grandpa, or attending every bowling adventure my grandpa went on. We loved nothing more than gathering together as a family, mostly on Friday Nights at Cedar Lanes Bowling Alley to cheer on Papa as he bowled.
For me personally, my grandma was my rock, my constant, my safe haven. I knew that no matter what I was facing my grandma would be there for me always. I have the fondest of memories of tea parties every single day, dressing up in her old wedding dress, going through her mothers jewelry, never getting tired of telling me the same stories over and over again, watching law and order together, and baking in the kitchen. I remember hearing the school bell ring and knowing that meant I would be met with a huge smile as she waited for me by the car. Looking out into the audience during every awards ceremony, piano recital, soccer game, baseball game and knowing she was right there. When I say my grandma was always there, I meant she was ALWAYS there for you. No matter what, no matter when, if I needed her she was always there. She never got tired of being present for me. My grandma is my everything, and she will be missed beyond understanding. We find peace in knowing that she is with the love of her life whom she missed so very much and now they are both looking down on us.
Thank you grandma for giving me the most incredible 27 years with you. It was definitely not enough, and it truly hurts every day since you’ve been gone. Your were more than just my grandma, you were my best friend. I know you are resting easy, and are overjoyed to be in grandpa’s arms. We promise to always make you proud. We love you so much!
JoAnne’s service will be at Whitehurst Sullivan Burns & Blair Funeral Home February 27, 2021 at 11am. A reception will follow at 671 E. Menlo Ave Fresno, Ca at 1pm. For anyone unable to attend a link will be provided to join virtually.
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