Obituary of Mary E. Clarey

Mary E. Clarey “Mare”, 57, of Utica, NY passed away following health complications on March 24, 2025, at Rome Memorial Hospital. Born on November 13, 1967, she was the daughter of Donald Clarey and Beverly (Kiefer) Clarey. Mare grew up in Clark Mills and was a graduate of Westmoreland High School.

Mare was a gifted seamstress. Her eye for detail and ability to sew made her the local “go-to” when it came to alterations. She made many beautiful dresses and outfits over the years, often giving them either to those in need or to someone who Mare thought needed something special. Mare had a creative side and could bring to life beautiful crafts which was one of her favorite hobbies. Mare also always enjoyed a good true crime series, documentary, or horror film.

Mare was the director of operations at the Clinton Pet Vet Rescue and Sanctuary; it was here that Mare found her true calling and passion. She was an integral part of the rescue and poured her heart and soul into countless cats and kittens. Whether it was a fragile newborn needing constant care or a frightened stray who just needed kindness and patience, Mare always won them over. Mare had a heart that could grow and find room to love each critter in need. She dedicated many hours to planning fundraisers to help benefit the rescue, helped train volunteers, cleaned litterboxes, and kept everyone fed and cared for. Most importantly, Mare was the master kitten cuddler – it was rare to not find Mare with a kitty on her lap, shoulder, or both!

Mare liked to say she wasn’t a people person, but her giving heart said otherwise. If there was a way for Mare to help, she would find a way to do it even if it meant she went without. Mare leaves behind a legacy of helping our most vulnerable; her heart was truly one of a kind. She will be missed by her wonderful friends at CPV Rescue and Sanctuary. If Mare were here, she would want to thank them for helping her find her calling and for giving her such purpose. 

Mare leaves behind her brother Andrew (Janet) Clarey; her daughter Katie (Robert) Tamez and granddaughter Christiana; nephew Samuel and fiancé Eliza Bell; nephew Drew; niece Rachel; her beloved cats Thomas, Eric, Lucy Jo, and Beatrice;as well as numerous friends who became family from CPV Rescue and Sanctuary especially Jessica Price-Seelow, Sarah Price, Maureen Scoones, Debbie Sterling, and Mary Scholl. She was predeceased by her parents Donald Clarey and Beverly (Kiefer) Clarey.

Friends and family are invited to calling hours on Wednesday, April 16,, 2025, from 5:00-7:00PM at Owens-Pavlot & Rogers Funeral Service, 35 College Street, Clinton, NY.  In lieu of flowers please consider a donation to Clinton Pet Vet Rescue and Sanctuary, 60 Dwight Ave, Clinton, NY.