Obituary of Mary J. Badger

Mary Jane Badger Allegany, NY Mary Jane Badger passed away on Friday February 21, 2025 at Olean General Hospital after a brief illness. She was 77. Born Mary Jane Kirby on July 19, 1947 in Lansing, Michigan she was one of four children born to Donald and Donna (nee Skinner) Kirby. Growing up as a farmgirl in Sheakeyville, PA, Mary loved sports, reading and especially music. In 1965 she attended Clarion University, majoring in Music Education. She later completed her master’s degree at Edinboro University. On June 25, 1976, she married Christopher Badger in Olean NY. A year and a half later, she welcomed her only child, a daughter Heather. Mary Jane’s love for music was only matched by her joy of working with kids. She began teaching junior high music and chorus at Olean Middle School in 1971. Very soon after she became the choir director at Christ United Methodist Church, a position she held for 17 years. In the summer of 1971, Mary Jane helped found the YMCA Christian Singers, a group of young men and women who always held a special place in her heart. In 1988 Mary Jane and her family relocated to Rouses Point, NY. She took on the position of high school vocal teacher. Through her 33-year career in music education, Mary Jane provided students with opportunities to travel many places throughout the country for vocal competitions. She directed award winning show choirs and countless musicals. In 2002 she was chosen to be the director of the Northern New York Area All State chorus. Throughout her time as a teacher and director she always shined with selfless joy and pride for all her students. In 2009 Mary Jane become a grandmother to her only grandchild and the light of her life, Mitchem Smith. Together they shared a special bond and a love for animals and music. Mary Jane is survived by her loving husband of 47 years, Christopher Badger and her daughter Heather (Matthew) Smith both of Allegany, NY; a brother Donald Kirby of Coudersport, PA; a sister Edith Hoffmann of The Villages, FL, and a brother Ronald (Angela) Kirby of LeRoy, PA. She is also survived by many beloved nieces and nephews and grandnieces and grandnephews. A funeral will be held in mid-April. In memory of Mary Jane donations can be made to the American Arthritis Association. Arrangements are with the Casey, Halwig & Hartle Funeral Home, Olean.