Obituary of Mary Jo Thibault

Mary Jo was born on Nov. 11, 1963, in Buffalo, NY, and was the daughter of the late Shirley Marie (Bombard) and Paul Joseph Thibault. She passed away peacefully, at 61 years of age, leaving a legacy of joy and love that touched everyone who knew her. Born with Down syndrome, MaryJo approached life with infectious enthusiasm and made the world a brighter place. Her spunky personality shined for her colleagues and staff at Ontario and Wayne County ARC’s. MaryJo found delight in life's simple pleasures, enjoying the twinkling of Christmas lights as we drove around town. Her love of music was at the heart of who she was, and those who knew her will forever remember her spirited renditions of "Sweet Home Alabama," "Beat It," and "Silent Night." Her voice, filled with passion and happiness, was a gift she generously shared. Dancing was one of her greatest joys - whether swaying to a gentle melody or enthusiastically moving to an upbeat tune, MaryJo expressed herself through movement with pure, uninhibited happiness. Friends and family will cherish memories of her dancing at family gatherings, in her living room, or anywhere music played. Spending time with her sister and brother-in-law at the marina always included music and allowed her to inspire others to join her in dancing. She also loved purple and football, making the Vikings her team and the ‘undisputable’ winners of every game they played. With patience and determination, MaryJo would spend hours completing word searches and jigsaw puzzles. Her visits to casinos were marked by excitement, especially when she could play her beloved Michael Jackson and Betty Boop-themed slot machines. Travel brought adventure to MaryJo's life, with her trip to Disney World standing out as a cherished highlight. The magic of that special place perfectly complemented her magical spirit. She especially loved traveling in the RV and spending time camping with family. MaryJo's legacy isn't measured in professional achievements or material possessions, but in the countless moments of happiness she created and shared. Her pure approach to life's pleasures reminds us of the beauty of simple joys and authentic living. She will be deeply missed, but the melody of her life continues to play in the hearts of all who loved her. She is survived by her siblings Joseph Paul Thibault of Geneva, Thomas (Mary) Thibault of Geneva, Michelle Thibault Piccolo of Geneva, John Thibault of Waterloo, Martin (Deborah) Thibault of Stanley; nieces and nephews Christopher (Tychelle) Thibault, Stephanie Thibault, Timothy Jr (Shannon) Thibault, Jeffrey Thibault, Carrine (Jeremy) Kaufer, Matthew (Melissa) Piccolo, Kelsey Journell, Joshua (Alicia) Thibault, Zachary (Jessica) Thibault, and Brianna (James) Cardinale; several great nieces and nephews. Mary Jo was predeceased by her brother Timothy Thibault, his wife Bonnie Thibault, and brother-in-law Ralph Piccolo. Contributions may be made to Special Olympics Polar Plunge at www.specialolympics.ny.org or the Arc Ontario, 3071 County Complex Dr. Canandaigua, NY 14424 in her memory.