John D. "Jack" Cleary, age 92, of Montour Falls, NY, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, March 5, 2025. Jack was born in Elmira, NY, on January 10, 1933, to the late John and Theresa Cleary.
Relatives and friends are invited to call from 10:00-11:00 am on Monday, March 17, 2025, at St. Mary's of the Lake Church, 905 N. Decatur St., Watkins Glen, NY 14891. A Memorial Mass will begin at 11:00 am. Burial will follow at Woodlawn National Cemetery, Elmira, NY. The family will be providing flowers; however, donations in Jack's memory may be made to the Montour Falls Fire Department, PO Box 369, Montour Falls, NY 14865, or to a charity of your choice.
Jack was retired from the US Air Force, proudly serving his country for 20 years. He then went on to a 20-year career with the US Postal Service. He was very involved in the local community, serving as a Village Trustee and as the Mayor of Montour Falls. He was also an active member of the Montour Falls Fire Department and St. Mary's of the Lake Church in Watkins Glen.
In addition to his parents, Jack was predeceased by stepfather Harry Plate; a daughter, Mary E. Cleary; a sister, Mary Cleary; a brother, Howard Morehart; and grandchildren, Raymond, Rachel, and Ryan Cleary.
He is survived by his wife of 52 years, Mary Ann; his children, John (Kathy) Cleary of Elmira, NY, Christine Polonis of Albuquerque, NM, Theresa Siri of Watkins Glen, NY, Patrick (Star) Cleary of Yantis, TX, and Kelly (Rodney) Iles of Manor, TX; his grandchildren, Alicia, Michael, Jason, Jordan, Patrick, Jr., and Brysen; and several great-grandchildren.