BRENDA SUE O’CONNELL
Brenda Sue O'Connell, 48, passed away at home in Brisben on Sunday, January 31, 2016. Brenda was pre-deceased by her mother, Shirley Covell. She is survived by her husband, Brian O'Connell; her father, John Barlow and his wife Beverly; her sister, Bekki Barlow and her partner Cara Pellino and her sister Julie Barlow. Brenda was born in Liberty, raised in North Sanford and Deposit, and went to Deposit Central School.
She attended Marymount University in Tarrytown and received a Bachelors degree in Early Childhood Education which she put to use working in Sidney as a Special Education teacher and at Opportunites for Chenango, first with Even Start, and then as a Child Development Coordinatior. She excelled at her job and loved the people she worked with. Brenda loved to cook, to be with family and friends, and most enjoyed spending time at Buckhorn Lake in Unadilla and at Fourth Lake in the Adirondacks. She enjoyed organizing events: trips, vacations, reunions and parties. Brenda loved dogs; she and Brian have had five over the years. A Celebration of Brenda's Life will take place on Saturday, February 27th at the Sidney Fire Hall, River Steet, in Sidney, from 1:00 to 4:00 p.m. People are encouraged to bring pictures and stories to share. In lieu of flowers we ask that people donate, in her name, to “New York Bully Crew” (www.nybullycrew.org) or any reputable dog rescue organization. Details and questions for celebration can be directed to Karen Kane: 316-2195 and Angie Roberts: 226-1088.
Arrangements are under direction of Root Funeral Home, 23 N. Chenango Street, Greene, NY 13778 and condolences may be sent to the family at www.rootfh.com.