Mary Jo Zissler

Mary Jo Zissler, of Fairport, NY, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, March 17, 2026, at the age of 75.

Adored and admired by all who knew her, Mary Jo was known for her boundless energy, deep faith, courage, and overall zest for life. She was a loving mother, proud new grandma, and fiercely devoted friend to the many people in her life who were impacted by her kindness and fun-loving spirit. She possessed a formidable strength to push through any adversity thrown her way.

Born in Rochester, NY, Mary Jo moved to Duxbury, MA, and Weston, CT, before returning to her hometown to be surrounded by family and close, life-long friends. She spent over 20 years working at Paychex, where she left a positive imprint on the culture and all those who worked alongside her.

Mary Jo had a natural gift for connecting deeply with people, which was evident in every aspect of her life. A faithful member of Church of the Assumption, she served as a Minister to the Homebound, edited the bulletin, and looked forward to "Tasty Tuesday" breakfasts with her 7:30 AM Mass group.

She lived a life rich with simple joys and passions. An avid tennis player and Buffalo Bills fan, she devoted countless hours to being the best "sports mom" for her two sons. Mary Jo loved traveling, needlework, gardening, playing her daily word games with friends and family, and making her famous glazed almonds for Christmas. A voracious reader, she was a dedicated friend of the Rochester Public Library.

Mary Jo was preceded in death by her parents, John A. and Patricia M. Ragan; her siblings John T. Ragan, Marie Lorbach Tatay, Patricia Thornton, and Sheila Lutz Winn. She is survived by her loving sons, John (Le) Zissler and James (Kate) Zissler; her grandson Wes Jean Zissler; three nephews, two nieces, special close friend Ginny Mulcahy, and many close friends and cousins.

A Celebration of Life Mass will be held at Church of the Assumption, 20 East Avenue, Fairport, NY, on Friday, April 17, 2026, at 9:30 AM.

In lieu of flowers, donations in her memory can be made to University of Rochester Medicine Hospice Care or the Mercy Fund at Church of the Assumption.

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