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Posted Sep 11, 2026 | 4:09 PM
It is with sadness and peace that we say goodbye to Mary Elizabeth O’Flynn (nee Freyseng). She lived a full life of 91 years. Beloved wife of John O’Flynn (deceased). Loving mother of Dale O’Flynn (Terry Bridges), Kitty O’Flynn (Eben James) and Pam O’Flynn (Stuart Thomas). Loved by grandchildren Colin (Miri), Chris, Ally (Jonathan), Abbey (Brittany), Megan and Ioan. Dear sister of Peter Freyseng (deceased) and John Freyseng (Sandy). Wonderful aunt to Peter, Chuck (deceased), Signy, Adam, Kate (deceased), Stephen F, Stephen I, Susan and Stuart.
Mary was born in 1935 and grew up with her family in Toronto. As a young woman she graduated from University of Toronto and then moved to Boston for a year to attend Katharine Gibbs School. Her adventures after finishing school took her travelling to Europe where on the crossing she met John O’Flynn. They married in 1958 and settled in Belleville where they raised their three daughters.
Mary enjoyed many years of golfing, cottaging with family on Lake Simcoe and being involved with the local equestrian community. World-wide travel was a passion of Mary and John’s. Some of their most remarkable trips were to the Arctic.
A joy of Mary’s was living most of her life on the beautiful Bay of Quinte, where she and John hosted many memorable gatherings with family and friends. They created a home where children and grandchildren always felt loved and welcomed.
Mom was a rare eternal optimist and carried this through her whole life. We witnessed her finding pleasure and joy in the everyday. She was a role model with her grace and resilience. Mary will be deeply missed and forever remembered.
For a service honouring Mary and her life, please join us at 2pm Tuesday, September 22 at Bridge Street United Church (60 Bridge Street East Belleville). Followed by a reception at Dinkel’s Restaurant (44 Bridge Street East Belleville).
In lieu of flowers, donations to Belleville General Hospital, Hospice Quinte, Canadian Wildlife Federation or a charity of your choice would be appreciated.
Arrangements entrusted to the BURKE FUNERAL HOME (613-968-6968), 150 Church Street, Belleville. Online condolences at www.BurkeFuneral.ca