It is with profound sadness and deep respect that we share the passing of Shawn O’Mara, a devoted public servant, compassionate caregiver, and proud resident of Verplanck, New York. Shawn was a man who wore many hats in life—veteran, firefighter, funeral director, friend, and hero to many. His loss is not only deeply felt by those who knew him personally, but by the entire community he served so faithfully and selflessly.
How do you find the words to honor a man like Shawn O’Mara? A man who gave so much of himself to others, often without asking for anything in return? Shawn was the calm in the storm, the strength when others were weak, and the compassion so desperately needed in moments of pain and loss.
As a licensed funeral director and manager at O’Mara & Carpentieri Funeral Home, and formerly at Waterbury & Kelly and Leach & Thomas Funeral Homes, Shawn took care of families during their darkest hours with grace, respect, and empathy. He had a calling—not just to a profession, but to people. He made it personal, because to Shawn, every life mattered. Every family mattered.
His service didn’t stop there. Shawn was a proud member of the Verplanck Fire Department, always ready to answer the call—day or night—because protecting others was simply who he was. He lived by the firefighter’s creed: to serve first, and to put others before self.
Shawn also served his country with honor as a Hospital Corpsman in the U.S. Navy, dedicating himself to the care and well-being of his fellow service members. He brought that same discipline, compassion, and commitment back home, where he continued to serve his neighbors in every way he could.
A graduate of Hendrick Hudson High School and the American Academy McAllister Institute of Funeral Service, Shawn never strayed far from his roots. Verplanck was home. It’s where he lived, worked, gave, and loved. And it’s where he’ll be remembered forever as one of the good ones.
To say he will be missed is an understatement. The hole he leaves behind is vast—but so is the legacy he leaves in its place. It’s found in the lives he touched, the families he comforted, the fires he fought, and the community he helped hold together, one act of kindness at a time.
Rest in peace, Shawn O’Mara. You were always there when it mattered most. You gave your all to your community, your country, and to every person who crossed your path. The world is better for having had you in it.
Until we meet again, my friend.
Thank you for everything. 🕊️🚒🇺🇸
