Philanthropist with strong Mayo roots has passed away in New York

Legendary New York leader and philanthropist Dr. William (Bill) O’Dwyer has died aged 89. He had strong Mayo roots.

Bill’s late father, Paul O’Dwyer founded the O’Dwyer Cheshire Home Bohola in 1976 which is commemorating its fiftieth anniversary this year. He was born in Bohola in 1907 before emigrating to the United States.

Like his father, Bill was a regular visitor to his native Mayo.

Swinford based Pat O’Connor, a director of the O’Dwyer Foundation in Ireland, paid tribute to Bill describing him “as a great Irish American and proud Mayoman.”

Mr. O’Connor said: “Prior to his death (August 9) it would have given Bill some comfort to know that his family’s ancestral county had won the All-Ireland, the Sam Maguire Cup, after such a long gap of 75 years”.

He added: “Bill leaves behind a legacy of deep values, charitable involvement, and philanthropic endowments. He was hugely supportive of many charities throughout Ireland as well as in New York and throughout the Irish community in the United States."

A tribute to the late paediatrician published in the Irish Echo newspaper praised his commitment to caring for others which extended well beyond medicine, his professional career.

“He loved connecting with people, gave generously of himself to others, and asked little in return beyond their companionship.

“Whether he was caring for a patient, helping his community, or spending time with family and friends, he wanted to make life a little better for those around him."

In addition to his wife, Carole, Bill is survived by his daughters Kerry (Chip) Marrano and Deirdre (Michael) Ladd; six grandchildren, Ryan (Kelsey), Connie, and Ricky (Ali) Marrano, Jack, Patrick, and Declan Ladd, his two great-grandchildren, James and Will Marrano ,and his brother Rory and Brian ( a director of Ireland West Airport Knock).

Burial has taken place at Saratoga National Cemetery, New York.

A celebration of Bill’s life will be held at a later date.