WYNANTSKILL -

MaryAnne (Benoit) O’Connell, aged 86, of Wynantskill and formerly of West Sand Lake, New York, peacefully entered into eternal rest on February 12, 2026, in Wynantskill.

Born in Troy, New York, she was the beloved daughter of the late Leon and Mary Benoit. Raised in Watervliet, MaryAnne was a proud graduate of the Watervliet High School Class of 1958. On December 19, 1959, she was united in marriage to her devoted husband, Edmund O’Connell, at St. Brigid’s Church in Watervliet, beginning a beautiful journey of sixty-two years together.

As the dedicated spouse of a career Navy man, MaryAnne exemplified resilience and grace, establishing a warm and loving home for her family at every station where her husband’s service called them. Following his naval retirement, the couple resided in Lisbon Falls, Maine, before MaryAnne’s deep love for her roots led them back to New York to be near her extended family and lifelong friends. A woman of industrious spirit, she later co-founded and successfully operated a home cleaning business until her retirement.

MaryAnne found great joy in the simple pleasures of life, particularly summers spent with Edmund in their RV at Lake George and cherished trips to South Carolina to visit her son and his family.

She is survived by her children, Kelly (Gary) Grimaldi and Daniel (Lisa) O’Connell; and her brother, Joseph Benoit. Her legacy lives on through her four cherished grandchildren: Kendra, Karli, Carson, and Adelle. She was predeceased by her husband Edmund in 2021, as well as her brothers Leon and Jerry Benoit.

The family wishes to extend their deepest gratitude to Lynn, her caregiver and "guardian angel," for her years of compassionate care. Special thanks are also offered to lifelong friend Gail and her daughters, Michelle and Laurie; devoted sister-in-law Sharon; and Pam ("Pammy") and the "Deacon Blues" high school lunch group for their enduring friendship and monthly gatherings.

In accordance with MaryAnne’s wishes, there will be no calling hours. A Celebration of Life will be announced in April; family and friends will be notified of the details. Interment will take place at the Gerald B.H. Solomon ~ Saratoga National Cemetery.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared with the family, online at: SimpleChoicesCremation.com