If you’re about to throw away a used Ziploc bag, stop. Those of us who knew and loved Phyllis Marlene “Sid” O’Hara (born Dec. 24, 1935) were blessed to learn many valuable lessons from “Sid” during her 85 years, among them the frugality of reusing that plastic bag until long after the seal had worn out, eating all your vegetables no matter how long they had been boiled on the stove, and to embracing the Langley family motto “don’t tell me what to do.”
Sid was called to heaven, peacefully on Saturday, Dec. 4, 2021, after a short fight with pneumonia and a long battle with leukemia. In fact, some of her final words in the hospital on Friday were: “Ok, let’s go home,” and she’d like you to know that God listened.
She’s been reunited with her husband and favorite travel companion, John O’Hara, and is predeceased by her parents, Earl D. and Mildred P. Langley, as well as all five of her siblings, Elden Langley, Joyce Westfall, Jean Cranston, Roberta Golden and Glenda (Peenie) Armstrong.
Sid is survived by her children, Susan (Shane,) Sally, Tom, and Sandra (Joe), seven grandchildren, four great-grandchildren (nieces, nephews, friends and family too numerous to list) whose photos line the walls of her New Woodstock home.
Sid lived her life in service to others as a dedicated member of her church and a volunteer at the New Woodstock Free Library. She was often occupied by providing child care for her grandchildren or creating colorful gardens for passersby to enjoy. She loved to play cards, travel and hike to admire waterfalls. She was quick to offer homemade cookies to visitors and pass off the bounty of her garden to friends and neighbors.
Friends can visit with Sid’s family at Smith Funeral Home from 1 to 2 p.m. on Sunday, Dec. 19, 2021. Funeral service is at 2 p.m.
In Sid’s memory, flowers may be sent to the funeral home (she sure loved a good bouquet) or donations may be made to the New Woodstock Free Library.
