PORTLAND — Bernice Marie O’Leary, 78, unexpectedly died Dec. 8 at her residence .

On Jan. 26, 1932, she was born in Portland, a daughter of Peter and Margaret (Bernard) Gallant, and attended local schools, graduating in 1951 from Portland High School.

She married the love of her life, John J. O’Leary, Sr., on July 9, 1955.

After raising a family of four children, she worked at Dodge the Florist for 10 years, until retiring in 1990.

A wonderful mother and grandmother, she enjoyed trips to Foxwoods, the beach, and spending time with friends and family.

A highlight of her life was when her children organized a surprise 50-year wedding anniversary party with over 100 guests.

She was a former member of the Daughters of Isabella.

She was predeceased by a brother, Peter E. Gallant, and a sister, Frances Brown.

Survivors are her husband of 55 years, John, of Portland; two daughters, Kathryn M. O’Leary of Scottsdale, Ariz., Ellen M. O’Leary McKee and her husband Scott of Falmouth, and two sons, Timothy D. O’Leary and his wife Patricia of Tucson, Ariz., John J. O’Leary, Jr., of Portland; a sister, Patricia Farrell of Portland; and three grandchildren, Spencer, Ethan and Carter McKee, all of Falmouth.

Memorial services were held earlier this week.

Arrangements are by Conroy-Tully Crawford Funeral Home, 172 State St., Portland.

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