Honor Chloe Ann O'Neil

Senate Resolution No. 292 BY: Senator LITTLE MOURNING the death of former New York State Assemblywoman Chloe Ann O'Neil, dedicated educator, political leader and strong advocate for the people of this great Empire State WHEREAS, It is with profound sorrow that this Legislative Body, representing the people of the State of New York, is moved this day to pay tribute to an eminent woman of indomitable faith and dedication whose public service and countless accomplishments will forever stand as a paradigm and inspiration for others; and WHEREAS, Chloe Ann O'Neil of Parishville, New York, died on Thursday, November 15, 2018, at the age of 75; and WHEREAS, Born in Watseka, Illinois in 1943 to Stephen Whittier Tehon and Betty Irene Albright, Chloe Ann Rene Tehon shared her father's keen intellect and compassion and her mother's tenacity and forthrightness; and WHEREAS, John G.A. O'Neil and the former Chloe Ann Tehon were united in marriage in April of 1966, at Sacred Heart Church in Cicero, New York; and WHEREAS, Chloe Ann O'Neil earned both a bachelors and master's degree from SUNY Potsdam before beginning her illustrious career in education at the Parishville-Hopkinton Central School, where her reputation as a teacher was legendary; and WHEREAS, This extraordinary woman served in the state's then 112th Assembly District from 1993 until her retirement in 1998; she surprised many when she ran for, and won, the seat held by her late husband; and WHEREAS, In addition to being a renowned politician and teacher, Chloe Ann O'Neil was a noted amateur painter and longtime supporter of North Country artists and tourism; her quilt-making talents have filled many homes with joy and warmth; and WHEREAS, A true asset to her community, Chloe Ann O'Neil was a volunteer at Canton-Potsdam Hospital and served on the SUNY Canton College Council and College Foundation Board; she was an active community member and civic leader in St. Lawrence County and across the North Country; and WHEREAS, Affectionately known as "MomO" by her family and close friends, Chloe Ann O'Neil influenced and touched countless lives; she is fondly remembered for her strong advocacy, creativity, and ceaseless dedication to helping others; and WHEREAS, Preceded in death by the love of her life, former New York State Assemblyman John G.A. O'Neil, her parents Betty and Stephen Tehon, and sister-in-law, Sr. Janice O'Neil, Chloe Ann O'Neil is survived by her two children, Beth Ann (Stephen) and John (Meganne); and seven grandchildren, Krisha Ann, Keeley, Kaleb, John, David, Kathleen and Hannah; as well as her sisters, Susan, Rebecca, Penelope and Candace; sister-in-law, Myrna; and several nieces and nephews; and WHEREAS, Every citizen in New York State has most certainly benefited, in one way or another, from the deep dedication, intelligence and commitment that Chloe Ann O'Neil brought to her work as an educator, legislator and public policy-maker; loyal friend and trusted advisor, she will be deeply missed and truly merits the grateful tribute of this Legislative Body; now, therefore, be it RESOLVED, That this Legislative Body pause in its deliberations to mourn the death of former New York State Assemblywoman Chloe Ann O'Neil, dedicated educator, political leader and strong advocate for the people of this great Empire State; and be it further RESOLVED, That a copy of this Resolution, suitably engrossed, be transmitted to the family of Chloe Ann O'Neil.