Mary Alice O'Connell

Mary Alice (Laman) O'Connell

Mary Alice O'Connell, age 63, passed away at her home in Mesquite after bravely fighting a five year battle with breast cancer. Mary is survived by her husband of 38 years, R.W. (Bill) O'Connell , and son Robert Patrick O'Connell of Colorado Springs, who were with her when she passed away. She is also survived by her step-daughters , Ruth Contreras of Eagle River, AK, and Molly Carlson of The Woodlands, TX. Step-grandchildren are Erica Carlson of Denver; Jessica, Adabelle and Kyle Contreras of Alaska; and Nicole Carlson of Texas. Also surviving are step-great-grandsons Mauricio and Breaux. She is also survived by her sister Bette smith of Jupiter, FL, along with many nieces and nephews from Florida and Colorado. Mary was able to visit with her Florida family several months ago. She was the daughter of the late William and Anna Laman of Colorado Springs.

Most recently Mary worked at Final Details in Mesquite, and while living in Colorado Springs for 40 plus years, worked for a number of law firms, Colorado Pre-Stress, the City of Colorado Springs and reunions with Class. She was especially active in organizing class reunions and missed her Wasson class reunion last week. Her many friends were able to share stories and pictures from that reunion.

Mary enjoyed her move to Mesquite for the past ten years and was active in a number of bowling leagues. She loved her pets, especially her most recent pet, a long haired miniature Chihuahua named Bianca, and rescued kitty Coco. Many friends and relatives were able to visit in the past few weeks which she enjoyed. Mary also enjoyed reading many books and needlework with many unfinished projects. Mary was an avid Colorado Rockies and Denver Broncos fan.

Mary actively supported Animal Rescue Services, St Jude Hospital for Children, and Koman Race for the Cure. Her friend Georgene, who is also a cancer survivor, pushed Mary in a wheelchair this past May in the Race for the Cure.

In lieu of flowers, the family has asked that people please send donations to Animal Rescue Services, St Jude Hospital for Children, or Koman Race for the Cure.

A Memorial Mass will be held Saturday, August 21 at 10:00 AM at La Virgen de Guadalupe Catholic Church at 401 Canyon Crest Blvd in Mesquite. The family invites you to sign our memorial guest book at www.virginvalleymortuary.com .