Mary Josephine Puntney

August 31, 1928 - February 14, 2021

Mary Josephine Punt­ney of Salem passed away on February 14, 2021, at her daughter’s home, where she was lovingly cared for by her children. She was 92.

Mary Jo was born Au­gust 31, 1928 to Emmett and Julia O’Halloran in Prairie Home, Nebras­ka, on a small farm that had no running water or electricity. During the Depression, the family lost their farm, so they migrated on Route 66 to Southern California. After graduating from Chino High School at 16, Mary Jo attended Chaffey College.

In 1950, Mary Jo married William Puntney; they had six children: Bill (Angie), Salem; Patrick (Bonnie), Kennewick, Washington; Joseph (Nan­cy), Turner; Lisa Reiser (Vince), Tualatin; Nanette Puntney, Eagle, Idaho; Celeste Duyn (Ray), Mc­Minnville. She is survived by 11 grandchildren and 10 great grandchildren. Mary Jo was preceded in death by her husband, William, a brother, Jerry O’Halloran of Camino, California and a sister, Kathryn O’Halloran of Sacramento, California.

Mary Jo and William founded Clayton-Ward Recycling of Salem in 1969, where they worked side by side until William’s death in 1998. She continued to work for the family business until three months before her death. William and Mary Jo worked long and hard hours to provide the best they could for their children and appreciated the support from the community and their customers. Clayton-Ward Recycling has been in business for over 50 years. All of their children still work for the business today – a loving legacy from their parents.

A private family service will be held. In lieu of flowers, please consider a contribution to St Joseph Catholic School, Salem, Oregon.