Mary Gail Ellegate

Mary Gail Ellegate, 90 of Auburn (formally of Oneonta, NY) passed away peacefully in the comfort of her home, surrounded by her loving family on October 15, 2025.

She was born in Watervliet, NewYork, the daughter of the late Frederick and Marion (McNamara) Cassin. Mary had a very deep devotion to our Lord and to her family. She was a member of St. Mary's Church in Oneonta for many years.

In her earlier years, Mary worked as an American Greetings Card Representative, researched title abstracts and was employed by SUNY Oneonta in the Registrar's Office. She was a former member of the Oneonta Elks Lodge, Women's Ancillary for the Oneonta Jaycees, a community organizer, and secretary for several of her bowling leagues. Mary had many hobbies and passions, but none were greater than the love of her family. Some of Mary's hobbies included, cross country skiing, she was a superb Bridge player and card game enthusiast, avid bowler and roller skater, enjoyed watching Family Feud and Forensic Files, loved to read novels and her beloved Holy Bible. Mary loved the outdoors, especially hiking and just taking in the beautiful nature that surrounded her. She was an avid bird and animal lover. She thoroughly enjoyed watching all of her grandchildren's functions; whether it was a theatrical, musical, cultural or sporting event, you could always count on 'Nana' rooting them on. Mary loved helping others, and her beautiful smile and generous, golden heart will forever live in the many lives and hearts that were touched by her during her 90 years here on Earth.

  She is survived by her loving children; Carolyn A. (Thomas) Marks, John J. (Jeanne) Ellegate, Grace H. Ellegate, Leah L. (Jason) Lesch, eight grandchildren; Kyle Marks (Lauren Vernon), Robert Ellegate, Michael Ellegate, Nathan Lesch, Aaron Lesch, Liana Ellegate, James Ellegate Jr., Nicole Ellegate, daughter-in-law Julie Rizzo, several nieces, nephews, cousins and beloved canine friends, Bette and Leene.

  In addition to her parents, Mary was predeceased by her husband Richard in 2015, a son James Ellegate, brother E. Ronald Cassin, niece Nancy Ellegate and nephew Ronald Cassin.

  A private service and burial was held at the Ferndale Cemetery, in Johnstown, New York.

  Mary spent her lifetime encouraging others. She truly believed that you could choose to become anything you wanted to in life; she hoped mostly, that you would choose to be Kind.

  In lieu of flowers, please kindly consider a donation in Mary's memory to St. Judes Children's Research Hospital.

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