The Bradford Hospital Foundation announced the establishment of the James E. O’Mara Memorial Fund.
O’Mara was a tireless advocate for rural healthcare. He served the Bradford Hospital Foundation board for six years, and four years as chairman until his passing Feb. 5. His loving wife, Dr. Kimberly Young O’Mara, along with board members, family and friends established this fund which will support the mission of BRMC, according to Francie Ambuske, executive director, Bradford Hospital Foundation.
“Jim was a wonderful man who stood tall both in stature and in his dedication to Bradford Regional Medical Center. His tireless work on behalf of the Bradford Hospital Foundation will never be forgotten. It was a pleasure and a privilege to know him,” said Timothy J. Finan, president, chief executive officer, Upper Allegheny Health System and BRMC.
“In the pursuit of greater good, all would agree that Jim had an unwavering commitment to ‘do good.’ He did so through his exemplary community service, as a champion of rural healthcare philanthropy and giving at Pitt-Bradford, as a school board member, as a mentor to serve children and assist them through his work at Beacon Light and as an active member of his church. Jim ‘invested’ himself every day and was part of the fabric of this community. His reach will only be known over time because he did so much for so many and with a glad heart,” Ambuske said.
“Jim was committed to philanthropy and to the hospital. He visited every day, providing prayer and communion to the patients and residents at the Pavilion with a warm greeting to anyone in his path,” said Stacy Williams, director, volunteer services, community outreach, BRMC. “He, along with the board and staff, worked tirelessly to strategically improve approaches to healthcare philanthropy. The establishment of his fund will allow others to honor Jim and what he strongly believed in.”
Gifts to the James E. O’Mara Memorial Fund can be made by contacting the Bradford Hospital Foundation at 362-3200, at www.brmc.com or by mail, Bradford Hospital Foundation, 116 Interstate Pkwy., Bradford, Pa., 16701.