Marijo was a beacon of hope and light to all who knew her. The world is a better place because she was a part of it.

I met Marijo on the 'Connection Jitney' I believe was the name of the downtown van that ran the circuit of Manhattan's southern tip: a blessing in winter as the taper of land, while narrow on the map, swelled into a windy vastititude in Battery Park where we lived. I had only recently moved to the neighborhood; in crisis mode as often, most immediately fleeing rats in brownstone Brooklyn, but larger issues hovering too. Marijo, with her antenna for the wounded as well as simply liking 'people', reached out to me on our first encounter and remained a radiant fixture in my life, an adherer of souls as well as neighbors.

Marijo was my friend for over two decades--she used to come by to watch "Midsomer Murders" towards the end of our relationship. We spent many hours at various events, and especially dinner! I used to see her at least once a week--I miss her still!

My dearest Marijo. Always first there for our students, faculty and staff, always courageous, always positive, honest and loving. Sadly, we also shared our common illness and she showed me how to live with it until you can't any longer. I miss her and carry her lovingness in my heart and think of her every day.

Whenever I tell someone about my career in higher education. I always go way back to 1994 when I became President of NYU’s Inter-Residence Hall Council. When I began my year as President, I was informed that my advisor would be Marijo. From the moment I met her - my 6’2” compared to her….well, slightly shorter than me - I understood the power she had to bring people into her sphere, no matter if they were new to knowing her or not. She quickly became a confidant and mentor for me. When the time came for me to decide my future, she recommended I visit the MA in Higher Ed program at NYU, which I did, and the rest is history.

Marijo is THE reason I am where I am today. She gave me confidence, direction, and friendship that helped guide my life. No matter where I am, and no matter what I do, Marijo will always be a part of my life story.

Even though we fell out of contact, I always loved watching her successes at Pace and in her personal life with Mark and James. Her story continues even though she is no longer with us. I miss her but I know her soul is always present inside of me.

Love,
Dr. Jason Beckerman

Marijo would always make herself available to listen and solve any problem you had. Our fondest memory of Marijo is when we would talk every Friday , even during her illness. We would ask Marijo how she was doing, she would say “ I only want to know how you are doing. “People will never forget how you made them feel” (Maya Angelou)

She loved Pace students, and they loved her. Personally, I never met a warmer, more supportive colleague. She can never be replaced.

It's hard to believe it is the anniversary of my friend Marijo's passing. She was a delightful friend and sympathetic ear, but she was also a force in our neighborhood. Her family is modest about it, but Marijo did more for lower Manhattan than can be measured. She was deeply involved in goings on at Pace University, Downtown Little League, the WTC Health Community Advisory Board, and so much more. But she didn't just get the work done, she inspired everyone to think bigger and befriended everyone she came across. In turn she connected anyone she could to other people and resources to help them, strengthening and enriching our community in countless big and small ways. Her legacy will be felt in all the positive changes she made that continue to benefit her neighbors, students, and loved ones. Those who she touched will never forget her warmth, humor, compassion, and positive energy. We will always miss her deeply. May she be an example to us all.

7,271 Days.

My friend, Marijo Russell O’Grady, was full of energy and possessed a zest for life unmatched. For those who did not know my friend, you missed so much. She was a mom, a wife, an educator, a friend and so much more to so many.   She had a way about her that mixed determination and commitment to advancing the betterment of others, whether it be for family, friends, students, staff  or strangers.  

She resided and worked in lower Manhattan for over 20 years. She was in  her office the morning of September 11, 2001. On that date she experienced and was exposed to the horrors of that day.  As was her nature, she responded with swift speed to the deadly crisis.  Ensuring her loved ones along with students and staff were safe and secure.  Little did she know her health had been placed in jeopardy from those planes crashing into the buildings.     

Marijo died of cancer-related to 9/11, on August 8, 2020.   Between 9/11/01 and 8/8/20, she lived 7,271 days or 19 years, 10 months and 28 days.  Those 7,271 days were filled with determination and commitment to make a difference.  You did Marijo, your little frame made a big difference for so many.  Thank you. We miss you Mojo, rest in peace.

XO, smooch Kimbo