Christina Anne O’Leary

She spent her early years in New York before moving with her family to Miami, Florida in 1950. In 1957, she graduated from Notre Dame Academy and pursued a nursing degree from Jackson Memorial Hospital School of Nursing. On August 5, 1961, at the age of 21, Christina married the love of her life Bill O’Leary at St. John the Apostle Catholic Church in Hialeah, Florida. Christina was a registered nurse but gave up her profession to help her husband Bill develop a successful Landscape Architectural practice in South Florida while raising their three children. Christina resided in Miami for 68 years until 2018 when she and her husband Bill moved to Jacksonville, Florida.

Christina was a devout Roman Catholic who instilled her deep-seated faith into her children and entire family. For many years she was an active member of St. Louis Catholic Church in Pinecrest, Florida where she served in various ministries. She was a devoted wife, mother, grandmother and friend to many and loved to laugh, sing and dance. Her love of music came from her beloved father, the leader of the Larry Siry Orchestra in New York City and Miami.

Christina is survived by her husband of almost 60 years Bill O’Leary, son Bill (Joan), daughter Kathy Richards (Kevin), and son Jim (Sandy). Christina is survived by her brother Larry Siry (Mary Jo), sister Mary Lou Thomas (Mike), and many nieces and nephews. She was the much-loved grandmother of Katie Anne Sider (Stephen), Caroline McKinney (John), Jimmy O’Leary (Katie), Will O’Leary, Daniel O’Leary (Searra), Christina Richards, and Nicholas Richards.

She was blessed with five great-grandchildren with one more on the way.

Visitation will take place on Friday, May 28 from 5:30-8:00 pm at St. Joseph’s Catholic Church, Jacksonville, Florida, in the Historic Church. The Mass of Christian burial will be held at 10:00 am on Saturday, May 29, also in the Historic Church.

Those wishing to honor Christina’s life may donate in her name to St. Joseph’s Catholic Church (Capital Campaign).

Arrangements are under the care and direction of, 11801 San Jose Blvd. Jacksonville, FL 32223. www.hgmandarin.com (904) 288-0025.