She was born in North Portland to Joe and Anna Marie Cassidy. Mom was the youngest of four children. She completed twelve years of Catholic education and continued her devout faith until the end of her life.
Mom met dad while she was in high school. They were married in 1959 and enjoyed 45 years together until his death in 2004. Together they raised five children in North Portland.
Mom had many friends that cherished their time playing bunco, bowling, golfing, traveling to the Oregon coast, Hawaii, Mexico, and Ireland. She loved sun bathing by the pool and creating giggles and laughter.
Mom worked at Providence Hospital for over 20 years. She loved the hospital environment and cherished her time at work.
She encouraged all her kids to be creative. Mom was always available to sew our costumes, cheer us on any activity and sat on the sidelines for any event. As her family grew by 9 grandchildren she developed a special bond with each of them. Great grandchildren came along and her unconditional love grew more and her pride was contagious for the large family she helped create.
Alzheimer’s took mom away from us six years ago. This is a wretched, sad disease where a cure must be found! Each of us five kids tried connecting with mom during this trying time by being a bright light during a dark time.
Mom is preceded in death by her parents. Bill Cassidy, her older brother. Her twin infants Margaret and Mary and Paul, her husband of 45 years.
She leaves behind two siblings, Bob Cassidy and Joanne Stanovich. Five children Tobi Boyd (Bob), Marisa Hendrix (Terry), Molly Thorburn (Scot), Patrick Willison (Theresa) and Michael Willison. Nine grandchildren and five great grandchildren.
Recitation of the Rosary will be at 11:00 am, followed by a Funeral Mass Friday Oct. 18, 2019, at Holy redeemer Catholic Church, 25 N. Rosa Parks Way.
Contributions can be made to Alzheimer’s Association.
