Mary Jo Pohl

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Mary Jo Pohl, age 79, of Hamden, CT, on June 7, 2025, at Yale New Haven Hospital, surrounded by love. Born on July 31, 1945, in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, Mary Jo carried the warmth and resilience of her hometown with her throughout her life. After graduating from high school in Pittsburgh, she attended the University of Steubenville, where she met the love of her life, Michael Pohl. Together, they shared nearly 59 beautiful years of marriage — a partnership built on laughter, devotion, and unwavering support. Mary Jo had a lifelong passion for learning and teaching. She began her career as an elementary school teacher and later found her true calling in early childhood education, eventually becoming a beloved preschool teacher and director. Her joy in helping young minds grow was matched only by her gift for connecting with people of all ages — from tutoring high school math students to sharing her love of books with her grandchildren. A spirited sports fan, Mary Jo cheered loyally for her hometown teams — the Pittsburgh Steelers and Penguins — as well as UConn women’s basketball and Quinnipiac men’s hockey. She was also a devoted tennis fan and an enthusiastic player herself, enjoying the game well into her later years. Above all, Mary Jo cherished her family. She leaves behind her loving husband, Michael; her children, Kevin (Maggie) of Salt Lake City, UT, Ryan (Nanette) of Cocoa Beach, FL, and Karen (Shaun) Abbott of Wethersfield, CT; and her four adored grandchildren, Audrey, Liam, Teagan, and Paige, who lovingly called her "Nana." Her kindness, strength, and generous spirit live on in each of them. She was predeceased by her parents, Joseph and Audrey Dwyer, and her younger brother, Patrick Dwyer. She is survived by her brother, James Dwyer, and many dear friends and extended family members whose lives were touched by her warmth and grace. Mary Jo will be remembered as a loving wife, mother, Nana, sister, teacher, and friend. Her legacy is one of compassion, joy, and quiet strength — and she will be deeply missed by all who knew her. The family will have visiting hours between 5:00 and 7:00 pm on Friday, June 13, 2025, at Sisk Brothers Funeral Home located at 3105 Whitney Ave, in Hamden, CT and a funeral Mass will be held at 10:30 am on Saturday, June 14, 2025, at Our Lady of Mount Carmel Church located at 2819 Whitney Ave, in Hamden, CT.

Mary Jo Pohl

July 31, 1945 - June 7, 2025