Jean Rita Ottney

Jean Rita Ottney of Akron, New York born on August 2, 1933 to Helen (Kirsch) and Norbert Beiter, died on June 26, 2025. Jean was a beloved wife and mother, a dedicated and treasured teacher, a strongly religious woman and a compassionate, attentive friend to many over the years.

Jean met her husband, Elmer Ottney, while in high school. They married in 1955 and lovingly raised five children, eventually settling in Akron, New York, where they were recognized for their contributions to the community over decades.

Jean earned a teaching degree, pursuing her passion for educating and helping children. She found particular joy in the enthusiasm of elementary school students who were beginning to discover the thrill and pride of being able to read. Jean excelled at teaching others to read and gained a reputation for her ability to work with children who struggled with learning disabilities in school.  With intermittent breaks to raise her children, Jean taught K-4 classes full time and part time, primarily at Akron Central, but briefly in other schools. She also later volunteered as a literacy teacher for adult learners.

Jean’s love of teaching overlapped with her fervent commitment to her Catholic faith. She taught religious studies classes and led adult Bible studies over several decades for the St. Teresa of Avila parish in Akron. Jean and Elmer were involved in many parish activities and were close acquaintances of the priests and sisters who served the congregation. Jean also went on a trip to the religious site in Medjugorje which had a strong impact on her dedication to prayer and religious reflection.

An avid reader and regular library patron, Jean took an interest in calligraphy and handwriting analysis. She loved singing and encouraged her children’s participation in music and dancing. She enjoyed activities with and for her children, including crafts and travel, playing games and creating scrapbooks and albums

Jean was preceded in death by her parents, her husband Elmer and son Daniel, and her sister Dolores (Wolf) and brother Norbert. She is survived by her sons James Ottney of Stoughton, WI and Joseph (Carolyn) Ottney of Newmarket, NH daughters Kathleen (John) Parker of St. Paul, MN and Rosanne (Paul) Sheppard of Johnson City, TN, and sister Joan Wysocki of Akron, NY, as well as grandchildren and numerous nieces and nephews.

Family and friends are cordially invited to share thoughts and condolences on Monday, July 7 from 4 to 6 p.m. at the J. Leonard McAndrew Funeral Home, LLC, 32 John St., Akron, NY. Her Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Tuesday, July 8, 10 a.m. at St. Teresa of Avila Church, 5771 Buell St., Akron. She will be laid to rest next to her husband in St. Teresa’s Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, those desiring may make memorials in the form of offerings to St. Teresa’s Church, Akron. Expressions of sympathy may be shared with the family at www.mcandrewfuneralhomes.net.

Arrangements were entrusted to the J. Leonard McAndrew Funeral Home, LLC, 32 John St., Akron, NY 14001. Ronald Konieczny II, Director.