Mary Jo (McNierney) DeForest, 61, of Kingston

Mary Jo (McNierney) DeForest, 61, of Kingston, N.Y., passed away on Tuesday, May 22, 2018, at New York Presbyterian Hospital.

Mary Jo graduated from Kingston High School in 1974. She attended New York University, received her bachelor’s degree, and her master’s from SUNY New Paltz.

Mary Jo had a passion for helping others, which started with her opening a bridal shop in downtown Kingston. Mary was employed by Ulster County Social Services for many years and retired as deputy director for the Office for the Aging. After retiring, Mary started her own business, DeForest Consulting Elder Care Choices, as well as a parttime role as Medicare coordinator at Golden Hill. Her compassion and strength was clear to everyone, which made her a role model for many.

Throughout her life, Mary had been an avid volunteer, involved in many nonprofit organizations, including HealthAlliance Foundation, People’s Place, Friends of the Senate House and numerous senior citizen events. In her spare time, Mary enjoyed supporting local businesses at farmers markets, boutiques, and art shows, as well as traveling. Mary was always the first to celebrate any holiday, regardless of its popularity. Her enthusiasm and passion were contagious. Mary was a true inspiration and left the world a better place.

Mary Jo was born in Kingston on Nov. 12, 1956. On April 24, 1982, she began her beautiful marriage with the late Barry A. DeForest.

Mary is survived by her beloved daughter, Kaitlin Beth DeForest; her mother, Bernice McNierney; her siblings, Patricia Volkman and her husband Scott, Peter McNierney and his wife Erin; as well as many nieces, nephews, cousins, and dear friends. In addition to her husband, she was predeceased by her father, Joseph McNierney.

Entrusted to the care of Keyser Funeral & Cremation Service, 326 Albany Ave., Kingston, N.Y. 12401, where family and friends may visit on Wednesday, May 30, 2018, from 4 to 8 p.m. The funeral Mass will take place on Thursday, May 31, 2018, at 10 a.m. at Presentation Roman Catholic Church, Father Kelly Drive, Port Ewen, N.Y. 12466. Inurnment will follow in the Wiltwyck Cemetery Mausoleum, Kingston, N.Y.

The family suggests memorial contributions be made to Barry A. & Mary Jo DeForest Scholarship, c/o Rondout Savings Bank, 300 Broadway, Kingston, N.Y. 12401. To leave an expression of sympathy, please visit www.KeyserFuneralService.com.