Mary Ann Bennear

Mary Ann Bennear, 74, Upper Yoder, passed away at home August 9, 2024, surrounded by her loving family. Daughter of the late Paul and Mary (Griffith) Reilly, she was born on September 24, 1949 in Johnstown, PA. Preceded in death by her brother Bill Reilly (Sue) of West Palm Beach, FL and sister Liz Reilly of Wilmington, NC. Survived by her loving and devoted husband of 38 years, Harry; sons, Christopher married to Jen (Bennett) and Evan married to Lindsay (Carpenter) both of Johnstown and the granddaughters she so adored, Callie, Lyla, Aimee and Melanie. She is also survived by her sister Patty Spangler married to Forrie and brother Mike Reilly (Jami Zipf) both of Johnstown, brother Jim Reilly of Niantic, CT and sister Barbara Reilly (David Ray) of Coral Springs, FL; and 30 nieces and nephews.

Member of Our Mother of Sorrows Church. Mary Ann graduated from Bishop McCort High School in 1967 and the University of Pittsburgh in 1971 with a degree in Sociology. She was employed by the Commonwealth of PA Department of Public Welfare where she devoted herself to serving those in need especially following the aftermath of the 1977 Johnstown Flood. Mary Ann proudly and honorably served the family business, Dale Oxygen, for 30 years where she recently retired as a corporate officer. She tirelessly served as a dedicated board member and volunteer for JAHA and the Southern Alleghenies Museum of Art. Mary Ann was instrumental in establishing the Great Bishop McCort Auction in 1992. She possessed a keen eye for elegance and meticulousness in planning countless galas, charitable fundraisers, and corporate events.

Mary Ann loved her family, as much as a person could. She unselfishly opened her heart and her home to family and friends alike. Her most cherished memories are family gatherings, especially in coastal North Carolina where her family and relatives have vacationed together for over 30 years. Whenever the need arose, no matter how large or small the challenge, Mary Ann was there for her family as an advocate in the truest sense.  Even with a devastating disease like ALS, she bravely faced it head-on, and never stopped caring for her loved ones.

It is impossible for the family to individually thank all of the many people who provided for Mary Ann and her family with prayers, love, and compassion. This will never be forgotten. Friends will be received from 3:00pm-7:00pm Tuesday at Picking Treece Bennett Funeral Home. Funeral service will be held at 11:00am Wednesday at Our Mother of Sorrows Church.

Donations in Mary Ann’s name may be made to Windber Hospice and the ALS Association of Western Pennsylvania.

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