Mrs. Betty Jean Cleary, 86 a resident of James Square Nursing Home in Syracuse, formerly of N. Utica passed away Saturday October 24, 2009 at the nursing home. Betty was born in Utica on January 14, 1923 the daughter of Grover and Theresa (Dieffenbacher) Crill. She was raised locally, was a graduate of Utica Free Academy and the Utica School of Commerce. On August 21, 1954, Betty married James F. Cleary at Historic Old St. John's Church in Utica, a union of 42 years until James' death in 1996. At one time, she was employed with General Electric Company. Betty was a member of the PACE program in Syracuse and was of the catholic faith. She was an avid bingo player, enjoyed crafts, crossword puzzles, interacting with people one on one and was a devote New York Yankee fan. Mrs. Cleary is survived by one daughter and son-in-law, Anne and Mark Stockham of N. Syracuse, NY; three sons and one daughter-in-law, Paul Cleary of Blossvale, NY, Stephen Cleary of Rome, NY and Thomas and Betsy Cleary of Marcy, NY; one grandson, Adam Cleary of Marcy, NY; three step grandchildren, Sarah Stockham of Washington State, Bradley Stockham of Syracuse, NY and Jessica Stockham of Syracuse, NY; one sister-in-law, Mary Cleary of NY Mills, NY; one brother-in-law, Lawrence Cleary of Marcy, NY; 1 niece and two nephews. She was predeceased by a sister, Mildred, brother, Bud and a nephew. Mrs. Cleary's funeral will be held on Saturday October 31, 2009 at 12:00 noon at the Heintz Funeral Home 408 Herkimer Rd., N. Utica. Interment will follow in St. Mary's Cemetery in Clinton. Calling hours for family and friends are Saturday morning 10:00-12:00 prior to the service. Those wishing to make a donation in Betty's memory, please consider the Alzheimer's Association. Mrs. Cleary's family extends their heartfelt gratitude to the staff of the James Square Nursing home and the PACE program for the wonderful care and compassion given to Betty.