Rosemary LaJoy Obituary May 20, 2026 | Ogdensburg, NY
Death Announcement
With profound sadness and heartfelt remembrance, the family of Rosemary LaJoy announces her peaceful passing on May 20, 2026, at the age of 84 in Ogdensburg, New York. Rosemary departed this life surrounded by the love of her family, leaving behind a legacy of kindness, devotion, and unwavering faith.
Rosemary LaJoy was a beloved mother, grandmother, sister, friend, and respected member of the Ogdensburg community. Known for her gentle spirit, caring heart, and ability to make everyone feel welcome, Rosemary touched the lives of countless people throughout her lifetime.
Her passing has brought deep sorrow to family members, friends, neighbors, and all who had the privilege of knowing her. Yet amid the grief, loved ones also celebrate a beautiful life defined by compassion, generosity, and dedication to family and community.
Rosemary’s warmth and kindness created lasting memories for everyone around her. Whether through comforting words, thoughtful gestures, or quiet acts of service, she made a meaningful difference in the lives of many people over the years.
Life & Career
Rosemary Ann LaJoy was born on September 7, 1941, in Massena, New York, to Joseph and Margaret Bennett. Raised in a close-knit family rooted in faith and strong values, Rosemary learned early the importance of kindness, hard work, and caring for others.
As a young girl, Rosemary enjoyed reading, baking with her mother, and spending time outdoors with family and friends along the St. Lawrence River. Her compassionate personality and warm nature were evident from an early age and remained defining qualities throughout her life.
Rosemary graduated from Ogdensburg Free Academy in 1959 before pursuing a career in administrative and community support services. Over the years, she worked for several local organizations and healthcare offices where she became known for her professionalism, patience, and genuine concern for others.
Coworkers and friends admired Rosemary for her calm demeanor and willingness to help anyone in need. She approached every responsibility with dedication and treated everyone she encountered with dignity and respect.
Outside of work, Rosemary devoted much of her life to her family and community. She loved hosting holiday dinners, caring for her garden, attending church events, and preparing homemade meals for loved ones. Her home was always a place of comfort, laughter, and togetherness.
Rosemary also enjoyed knitting, music, crossword puzzles, and spending peaceful afternoons with friends and neighbors. She believed deeply in maintaining close family bonds and cherished every opportunity to gather with loved ones.
A devoted member of St. Mary’s Cathedral in Ogdensburg, Rosemary actively participated in church outreach programs, charitable events, and volunteer initiatives throughout her life. She quietly helped families in need and often gave her time and support without seeking recognition.
In 1962, Rosemary married Paul LaJoy, beginning a loving marriage built on faith, loyalty, and unconditional support. Together they shared more than fifty years of cherished memories before Paul’s passing several years ago.
Family and friends remember Rosemary as someone who always listened with compassion and offered encouragement during difficult times. Her wisdom, grace, and caring spirit became a source of comfort for many people throughout her life.
Family Members
Rosemary LaJoy is survived by her loving children, Michael LaJoy and wife Denise LaJoy, Susan Carter and husband Robert Carter, and Daniel LaJoy and wife Melissa LaJoy.
She was also a proud grandmother to Emily, Nathan, Claire, Olivia, Benjamin, and Grace, all of whom brought tremendous joy and meaning into her life. Rosemary treasured every moment spent with her grandchildren, whether attending school events, sharing family stories, or creating treasured holiday traditions together.
She is additionally survived by her sister, Helen Porter, along with several nieces, nephews, cousins, church friends, and lifelong companions who will forever cherish her memory.
Rosemary was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Paul LaJoy, and her parents, Joseph and Margaret Bennett.
To her family, Rosemary was the heart of every gathering and the steady source of unconditional love and support that held everyone together. Her guidance and compassion will continue to shape the lives of those she loved for generations to come.
Funeral Details
A Mass of Christian Burial honoring Rosemary LaJoy will be held on Monday, May 25, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. at St. Mary’s Cathedral in Ogdensburg, New York. Family and friends are invited to attend visitation beginning at 9:00 a.m. at the church prior to the service.
Burial will follow at Notre Dame Cemetery in Ogdensburg.
The family kindly requests that memorial donations be made to local community outreach organizations or charitable food assistance programs in Rosemary’s memory, reflecting her lifelong compassion and generosity toward others.
Friends, neighbors, and loved ones are encouraged to attend and celebrate the remarkable life and lasting legacy of Rosemary LaJoy.
