Shelagh Marjorie O'Hara

Shelagh Marjorie O'Hara, born on March 5, 1972, in Okinawa, Japan, passed away on November 30, 2024, in Macomb, Michigan. Her life was a tapestry woven with love, creativity, and a profound dedication to her family.

Shelagh spent her formative years in Goldsboro North Carolina, where her family was stationed at Seymour Johnson Air Force Base. After her father, William, retired, she pursued higher education at Hollins College in Roanoke, Virginia, earning a Bachelor of Arts in History with a minor in Creative Writing and Japanese. This academic background laid the foundation for her lifelong passion for storytelling.

An avid reader and writer, Shelagh cherished the written word and nurtured aspirations of becoming a published author. Her creative spirit was matched only by her boundless enthusiasm for her family. She was indeed her family’s biggest cheerleader, passionately supporting her husband Robert in all his interests and championing their son Ace’s endeavors. The joy of motherhood was paramount in her life, as she often expressed that Ace, born on March 24, 1999, was her greatest achievement and love.

Shelagh had a profound affection for animals, demonstrating an unwavering compassion for all creatures great and small. Her love extended beyond her own pets, as she often endeavored to convince her family to welcome every stray animal into their home, lovingly referring to them as "fur babies." She will be fondly remembered for her nurturing spirit, especially towards the hippos Fritz and Fiona, and her own dogs and “grand cats,” whom she spoiled with treats and toys.

She is survived by her devoted husband Robert O’Hara, her cherished son Ace O’Hara, and her brother Lance Casey. Shelagh was preceded in death by her beloved parents, William Casey and Blanchella Casey.

The legacy of Shelagh Marjorie O'Hara is one of love, creativity, and unwavering support for those she held dear. Her memory will linger on in the hearts of her family and friends, reminding us of the profound impact one life can have on many.

Shelagh lived by many quotes which she referred to as her Mantra, below are some words of wisdom shared by Shelagh:

"I am capable (of change) and deserving of all the good things that come into my life"

"You're healing to be able to accept happiness back into your life"

"Challenges are what makes life interesting and overcoming them is what makes life meaningful"

"Makes peace with the past"

"Give yourself a little grace"

"I am worthy of happiness, love, and all the blessings life has to offer."

"I am grateful for the body that carries me through life."

"Slow progress is better than no progress"

"Stay positive and never give up!"

"Stop for a minute, breathe and be proud of yourself for how far you've come."

"You have to believe in yourself when no one else does."

"Enjoy your life!!!"

"Spread love everywhere you go."

"Be yourself, everyone else is already taken."

"I can accept failure, everyone fails at something. But I can't accept not trying."

"It doesn't matter how slowly you go as long as you don't stop!"

"The struggles within yourself - the invisible battles inside all of us- that's where the battles count."

"Two roads diverged in the wood, and I - I took the one less traveled by… And that has made all the difference."

"Do or do not. There is no try. (Yoda)"

"Always look on the bright side of life!!!"

"Just because the past is painful, doesn't mean the future will be!!!"

"Don't worry if plan A fails, there are 25 more letters in the alphabet!!!"

"Money and Land will come into your life and love will continue to guide you."

"When you are out of the house people will be attracted to you and your words"

"I don't care who is doing better than me. I am doing better than I was last year. It's me vs. me!"

"Our doubts are traitors"

"Let no one ever come without leaving happier."