October 2, 1947 – January 20, 2025
Ingrid Elaine O’Reilly (Jones), 77, passed away unexpectedly on January 20, 2025, surrounded by her three children. She was born on October 2, 1947 in New Canann, Connecticut.
Ingrid O’Reilly
Ingrid was a strong woman of warmth and grace, whose kindness and infectious laughter touched the lives of everyone she met. Known for her engaging conversations, she often spoke with immense pride about her greatest accomplishment – her children and grandchildren. They were the center of her world, and she cherished every moment with them. Ingrid’s caring and loving nature made her “Momma O” to many and a dear friend to all; she had a remarkable ability to make people feel special wherever she went.
Ingrid is survived by her three children and their spouses: Kristin (Carlos) Pizan, Katelyn (Brian) Abrahamsen and Garrett (Annelise) O’Reilly; her four beloved grandchildren: Rylan, Kinsley and Brooklynn Abrahamsen and Grayson O’Reilly; and many close relatives including her aunt Dottie Myers, cousin Steve Myers, sisters-in-law, Susie Tarantino and Sally Gabrielson, and family in Sweden. She was preceded in death by her sister, Karin Ellen Jones, and her parents, William Harold Jones and Ellen Jones (Skoglund).
Ingrid graduated with pride from New Canaan High School in 1965 as a member of the National Honors Society. She went on to earn her Bachelor of Arts from North Park College in Chicago, Illinois, in 1969, where she achieved recognition on the Dean’s List and became a member of Kappa Mu Epsilon, an honorary mathematics society. A devoted educator, she spent many years as a math teacher, substitute teacher and tutor. But her true passion lay in her family. As a loving mother, Ingrid committed herself wholeheartedly to supporting her children, attending their sports events, offering comfort to those in need, and caring for her grandchildren with unbounded love.
For the past several years, Ingrid dedicated herself to caring for her father, who lived to be 101 years old before passing on December 20, 2023. She had recently relocated to Costa Mesa, California to help care for three of her grandchildren and was filled with joy at the thought of watching them grow. These are just a few examples of her selflessness and unwavering love for her family.
Ingrid had an infectious zest for life, and her humor and spirit were contagious. She loved family gatherings, especially during vacations, and cherished her time spent in Aruba with loved ones.
Known as “Momma O” and “Ingy” to many, she leaves behind a legacy of love, friendship and laughter. Her presence made the world a brighter place, and she will be deeply missed by all who knew her.
Family and friends are invited to celebrate the life of Ingrid on Saturday, May 3, 2025. The burial service will be held at 11:30am ET at Lakeview Cemetery (352 Main St, New Canaan, CT), followed by a gathering in the Celsius Room of the Watershed Hotel from 12:30 to 2:30pm ET. Please join us as we honor and remember her remarkable life.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Teach for America.