Molly Jane Meissner Root

Molly Jane Meissner Root, 40, of Brockton, Massachusetts died unexpectedly Wednesday, June 29, 2016 shortly after being admitted to Good Samaritan Hospital in Brockton, Massachusetts.

Born July 19, 1975 in St. Francis Hospital, Olean, New York, she was the daughter of the late Richard Meissner and Jane Spako Meissner, of Great Valley, New York, who survives. She was married in Holy Trinity Orthodox Cathedral on May 23, 2004 to Mr. Marcus Root, who survives.

Molly was a graduate of Salamanca High School Class of 1993, earned her Bachelor’s Degree from Fredonia State University and her Master’s Degree from Leslie University in Boston, Massachusetts, both of which she graduated Magna Cum Laude.

While in high school, she served as an intern with the Cattaraugus County Legislature, and then served with Ameri Corp in Boston, Massachusetts, after graduating from college.

She had been employed as a mentor and teacher at Julie’s Family Learning Program in South Boston, Massachusetts. Her students remember her for her kindness, compassion, and empathy, helping many students achieve their success. She was a STAR certified teacher in evidence-based learning and had created a webinar that was presented at the state level. She had previously been employed at Carmen’s Deli, Parkview, the Salamanca Press, Cloud and Company, and the former Langworthy’s Restaurant, all in Salamanca, New York.

Molly will be remembered for her lovely voice and musical ability, enthusiasm, creativity, and her sense of humor.

Surviving beside her husband and mother are: a brother, Robert Meissner, Kansas City, MO; several aunts, uncles, and cousins.

She was predeceased by her maternal grandparents, Henry and Catherine Chiswell Spako, paternal grandparents, Paul and Claribel Beckwith Meissner, and a special aunt, Barbara Meissner.

Friends may call at the WM. F. Spencer Funeral Service, 575 E. Broadway, South Boston, MA on Wednesday, July 6th from 9 – 11 a.m., at which time a memorial service will be held. A Celebration of Life will follow at the Julie’s Family Learning Program, 133 Dorchester Street, South Boston, MA.

A Memorial Mass will be held in St. Pacificus Church, Humphrey, New York on Saturday, July 9th at 12 p.m. with Deacon Michael Anderson of Our Lady of Peace Parish officiating.

Funeral arrangements are under the direction of the O’Rourke & O’Rourke Inc. Funeral Home, 25 River Street, Salamanca, New York.

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests memorials to Julie’s Family Learning Program, 133 Dorchester Street, South Boston, MA 02127 or donations online at donatenow.networkforgood.org/mollyrootmemorialfund, or the Julie’s Family Learning Program Facebook page.

E-condolences can be sent to john@orourke-orourke.com or posted to facebook.com/onofh.