Obituary of Mary Kay Gillis

Mary Kay Gillis, 88, of Marietta, NY and formerly of Geddes, NY passed away peacefully on Friday, November 29, 2024.

Mary Kay was a dedicated registered nurse with an impressive resume over her career. She earned her nursing diploma from St Mary’s Hospital, and Bachelors and Masters in Public Health and Nursing from Syracuse University.  While a Ph.D. Candidate in Syracuse University School of Adult Education she was a co producer of published papers highlighting coronary care and education resources. An intellect, she used her skills and healthcare passion to further the advancement of the National Kidney Foundation of CNY, CNY/ AJ Stone Infusion, St. Camillus’ Home Health Providers, Inc, and Crouse Irving Memorial Home Care and Hospital, via grant writing, expanding contracts and developing programs. In addition to writing and program development, Mary Kay was your general selfless staff nurse at many additional offices and hospitals in NY, FL and PA, and most recently as one for at home care for undocumented individuals.

Over the years she was affiliated with many professional and community groups, CNY Irish American Cultural Institute, Alzheimer’s Association of CNY, Heart Association, Arthritis Foundation, Mother Marianne Cope Housing Development Fund Company, Pediatric Task force, Medical Registry of CNY and Central Counties Professional Nurses Association.

She was predeceased by her parents, William X. and Eileen (Dorsey) Barrett, and sister, Anne Janvrin of PA.

Mary Kay was survived by her son, A.J. (Alanna), and 2 grandchildren, Cameron and Hannah.

Funeral Services will be held on Tuesday, December 10, 2024 at 11am at St. Francis Xavier Church, 1 W Main St, Marcellus, NY 13108. Calling hour will be held prior from 10am to 11am at the church, with a nurse’s honor guard ceremony  being held at 10:45am right before mass. Burial will be private.

In lieu of flowers donations may be made to the National Kidney Foundation HQ; Attn: Gift Processing, 30 East 33rd Street New York, NY 10016