Marie Delisca "Del" O'Connell (Chiasson) passed away peacefully on May 14, 2010 at York Manor Care Center after a lengthy illness. Born in Bas-Caraquet, Del devoted her life to teaching and education. First as a French teacher in Oromocto then as a life skills teacher for the mentally challenged, both at Murray F. Humes School and Jobs Unlimited (formerly Fredericton Training Center). Del was a staunch supporter of the rights of the mentally challenged and worked toward acceptance and integration. She was also passionate about developing a French language school in Fredericton and was recognized as one of the founders of Ecole Saint-Anne. Del is survived by her loving husband of 50 years, William (Bill), her daughter Karen, her son Christopher (Veronica McGinn), her grandchildren Marie-Josee (Ronnie Johnson), Garret, Keenan, Ethan, her great grandson, Jessy, her sisters Yolande (Sebastien Friolet) and Desneiges (Pat Lanteigne). Predeceased by her parents Seraphin and Josephine (Gouret) Chiasson and daughter Lisa. There will be no visitation. A funeral service will be held on Tuesday May 18, 2010 at 12 noon from St. Dunstan's Church, Father Mark Trzop officiating. A reception at Monsignor Boyd Family Centre will immediately follow. Interment in the Hermitage Cemetery at 3 PM. Bishop's Funeral Home have been entrusted with arrangements. The family would like to thank the staff at York Manor for their excellent care and compassion over the past three years. No flowers by request. Memorial donations may be made to the Alzheimer's Society of Canada. www.bishopsfuneralhome.com