Senate Resolution No. 1403
BY: Senator HARCKHAM
MOURNING the death of Shawn Michael O'Mara,
devoted father, honorable veteran, compassionate
public servant, and beloved community leader
WHEREAS, It is the sense of this Legislative Body to recognize and
honor the life of distinguished citizens of the State of New York whose
personal commitment, service, and dedication have strengthened their
families, their communities, and this great State; and
WHEREAS, Shawn Michael O'Mara, a devoted father, beloved son, caring
brother, and cherished friend, died on September 13, 2025, at the age of
53, leaving behind a legacy of service, compassion, and unwavering
devotion to others; and
WHEREAS, Born on November 23, 1971, in Peekskill, New York, Shawn
Michael O'Mara was raised with values of hard work, integrity, and
service, which guided him throughout his life and career; and
WHEREAS, Following his graduation from high school, Shawn Michael
O'Mara answered the call to serve his country by enlisting in the United
States Navy in 1991, where he served with honor and valor as a Medic
during Operation Desert Storm, and was honorably discharged in 1994; and
WHEREAS, Continuing his lifelong commitment to helping others, Shawn
pursued a career in funeral service, earning an associate's degree from
the American Academy McAllister Institute of Funeral Service in New York
and becoming a licensed funeral director dedicated to providing comfort
and dignity to families during their times of greatest need; and
WHEREAS, Shawn Michael O'Mara was the owner of All County Funeral
Service and worked side by side with numerous funeral homes throughout
the region, ultimately taking great personal pride in operating the
O'Mara and Carpentieri Funeral Home in Verplanck, New York, where his
compassion, professionalism, and tireless work ethic were widely
respected; and
WHEREAS, His commitment to service extended well beyond his
profession, as he faithfully served his community as Chairman of the
Board of Fire Commissioners for the Verplanck Fire District and as a
longtime, active member of the Verplanck Fire Department; and
WHEREAS, Shawn was also deeply involved in civic and fraternal
organizations, including the Mt. Carmel Society of Verplanck, the
American Legion William J. Boyle Post, the Elks Club of Ossining, and
the Free Masons Club of Verplanck, further exemplifying his dedication
to community, fellowship, and public service; and
WHEREAS, Shawn Michael O'Mara is survived by his loving children,
Gabriella, Shawn Michael Jr., and Jayla Rose; his mother, Elizabeth
O'Mara; his sister, Kelley O'Mara Donovan (Daniel); his brother, Brian
O'Mara; his nieces, Danica and Haley Donovan; his nephew, Ryan O'Mara;
and his loving companion, Michelle Mattson, along with many dear family
members and friends who will forever cherish his memory; and
WHEREAS, He was predeceased by his father, Harold O'Mara, in
November 1998, whose guidance and example continued to inspire Shawn
throughout his life; and
WHEREAS, Known for his warm smile, generous spirit, courage, and
sense of fun, Shawn Michael O'Mara embodied the words of Winston
Churchill: "We make a living by what we get, but we make a life by what
we give," and he indeed made a life rich in giving, love, and laughter;
and
WHEREAS, Though his life was far too short, Shawn Michael O'Mara
lived fully and purposefully, marked by unwavering dedication to his
family, his country, and his community, leaving an enduring impact on
all who had the privilege to know him; now, therefore, be it
RESOLVED, That this Legislative Body pause in its deliberations to
mourn the death of Shawn Michael O'Mara, and to honor his life of
service, compassion, and commitment; and be it further
RESOLVED, That a copy of this Resolution, suitably engrossed, be
transmitted to the family of Shawn Michael O'Mara.
