Marie Bullard

February 29, 1928 – February 11, 2025

Marie Sellers Bullard, a leap year baby who left this world at the young age of 24 (96 in traditional years), passed away peacefully, leaving behind a legacy of love, wisdom, and unwavering devotion to her family, friends, and community. More than a wife, mother, grandmother, aunt, great-aunt and great-grandmother, Marie was a mentor, friend, and an inspiration to all who had the privilege of knowing her.

Born to Carl and Alice McQuade Sellers, in Potsdam, NY, Marie attended Potsdam Central School. She was recognized in recent years as one of the oldest living alumni after graduating from PCS in 1947. As her family became more and more active in athletics, Marie often liked to share that she too had an athletic diploma from PCS. She told stories of being one of the first female drum majorettes at PCS and if asked, would assure you that she could still throw a baton just as well as she had in high school!

Marie was married to Charles Bullard on September 16, 1950, at St. Mary’s Church in Potsdam. They were married for 40 wonderful years until his passing in 1990. Together, they built a strong and loving family, and their six children—Elizabeth Austin (Bill), Charles Bullard (Susan), Mary Beth Metzler (David), Barbara Russell (Richard), Carol Bullard, and Margaret Bullard—are a testament to her strength, compassion, and dedication as a mother.

Her pride and joy extended to her grandchildren: Emily O'Neill (Kerry), Elliot Austin, Bryant Bullard (Sarah), Jack Bullard (Jennifer), Abby Tendick (Kyle), Andrew Bullard (Bre), Kirsten Beltakis (Eric), Danielle Salley (Will), Torey Russell (Mary), Joseph Russell (Tommiann), Patrick Haley (Kristen), and John Haley (Katelyn). Beyond them, she was immensely proud of her great-grandchildren, who brought her endless joy: Katherine, Lilly, Ella, William, Susannah, Elliot, Owen, Molly, Annemarie, Sophia, David, Genevieve, Emma, Anna, Elizabeth, Josephine, Thomas, Julian, and Jordan.

In addition to her six children, 12 grandchildren, and 18 great grandchildren, Marie is survived by a brother, Carl Sellers Jr. of Potsdam, NY. She was predeceased by her husband, Charles, her sisters Ruth Taylor and Mary Morgan, a brother, Albert Sellers, her daughter-in-law Susan Bullard, and a great granddaughter, Lily Marie O’Neill.

Known affectionately as Bertha, Gram, and most famously "GG," Marie was a pillar of her community. As a dedicated and beloved instructor at the Condon Campus School, which was based on the SUNY Potsdam campus, she shaped countless young minds, leaving an impact that endured well beyond the classroom. Former students still speak of her as a role model who instilled confidence, curiosity, and a love of learning in all she taught. A highlight for her decades after teaching was to see many of her former students and their growing families around town.

A true sports enthusiast, Marie was honored with awards for attending the most sporting events in the Potsdam area and was inducted into the PCS Hall of Fame in 2012. Rain or shine, she was in the stands, at the rink, or on the sidelines, cheering louder than anyone, not just for her own family but for every student athlete who knew her unwavering support. She was a steadfast presence in the community, always knowing the right thing to say, always forming deep and meaningful connections, and always making those around her feel valued and seen.

Marie was always on the go and “ran the roads” up until the very end. For many years she and a group of friends held court in the Potsdam McDonald’s lobby with their “Coffee Club”. The social hour allowed them to stay on top of all the local happenings around town. She was a wealth of knowledge (and sometimes gossip) always making connections between different family trees in the North Country. She enjoyed a good game of BINGO, win or lose, and was famous for always having a snack handy. Whether it was on road trips to a game or visiting family, she would be sure to have a yummy snack to share with anyone willing. You never left GG’s house on an empty stomach!

Her faith was an integral part of her life. A devout Catholic, Marie never missed mass. In fact, she attended Saturday services just in case something prevented her from making it on Sunday. Her faith was her foundation, guiding her through life with grace, resilience, and an ever-present kindness.

Stubborn in the best of ways, Marie never wavered in her convictions. She stood firm in what she believed, yet she carried an innate warmth that made everyone feel welcome. She touched more lives than she probably ever realized, creating a ripple effect of kindness, wisdom, and unwavering support that will continue for generations to come.

Marie Sellers Bullard will be deeply missed but never forgotten. Her legacy lives on in the strong, successful family she raised, in the community that adored her, and in the countless lives she influenced. Though her time here has ended, her love, laughter, and wisdom will forever echo in the hearts of those who were lucky enough to know her. It is a reflection of Marie’s lifelong commitment to love and service.

Rest in peace, GG. Your legacy will never fade.

Arrangements are being entrusted to the Garner Funeral Home in Potsdam. There will be a mass of Christian burial on Tuesday, February 18,2025 at St. Mary’s Church with Rev. Joseph Giroux celebrant at 10:00. Burial will take place in the spring at St Mary’s Cemetery. Friends may call at the Garner Funeral Service on Monday, February 17 th from 3-7 pm. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made in her honor to the Potsdam Booster Club @ P. O. Box 806, Potsdam, NY 13676 or Hospice and Palliative Care of the St. Lawrence Valley @ 6805 St. Hwy 11, Potsdam, NY 13676. a reflection of Marie’s lifelong commitment to love and service.

Rest in peace, GG. Your legacy will never fade.