Obituary of Pamela Leonard O'Rourke

CHEEKTOWAGA, NY – Pamela Leonard O’Rourke peacefully passed away at home on March 2, 2025, surrounded by loved ones, after a year-long battle with brain cancer. She was born May 17, 1966 in Hornell, NY to her loving parents, John and Lois Leonard. Pam graduated from Troupsburg Central High School in 1984. She went on to attend the Central City Business Institute (CCBI) in Syracuse and graduated in 1986. While attending CCBI, Pam met the love of her life, Tom O’Rourke. They were married on October 1, 1988, and remained happily married until her passing. After graduating CCBI, Pam began a successful career at Bond, Schoeneck & King Law Firm in Syracuse where she was a dedicated and valued employee for 37 years. She started there as a secretary and because of her impeccable organizational skills and positive attitude, she was promoted and relocated to Buffalo where she became office manager, then later transitioned to the human resources department. Pam was respected by colleagues and clients alike and was known for her unwavering commitment to quality and her exceptional work ethic. She was a true asset to the team, consistently exceeding expectations. These admirable characteristics ultimately earned Pam the role of Chief Human Resource Officer at BSK. With her leadership and guidance, she impacted everyone she worked with. To most, if not all, Pam wasn’t just a coworker, but a friend. Pam found joy in traveling and reading. However, her biggest passions were always her family and friends. Her love for her family was extraordinary and it showed in everything she did both for and with them. She was extremely proud of her two children and enjoyed being a part of their beautiful lives. Pam and Tom’s five wonderful grandchildren were the sparkle of her heart. She loved her grand babies and was always so happy to see them. They brought her pure joy and pride. Pam leaves behind her loving husband, Tom; one son, Ryan O’Rourke and his wife Vivian; one daughter, Brenna Watson and her husband Troy; five grandchildren, Hazel and Nolan O’Rourke and Abigail, Vara and Sloane Watson; her dear and proud parents, John and Lois Leonard; three brothers, Tim Leonard and his fiancé Dianna Watts, Pat Leonard and his fiancé Kim Kiley; and Terry Leonard and his wife Jodi; her mother-in-law, Roberta O’Rourke (predeceased by Bill O’Rourke); three brother-in-laws, Pat O’Rourke and his wife Linda; Harold O’Rourke and his wife Jean; and Rob O’Rourke and his wife Pam. In addition, she leaves behind many aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, and cousins. Viewings will be held at H.P. Smith and Son Funeral Home, 1607 Main Street, Woodhull, NY on Friday, March 14, 2025 from 2:00-4:00 p.m. and 6:00-8:00 p.m. Services will be held at the same location on Saturday, March 15, 2025 at 11:00 a.m., with interment immediately following at St. Ignatius Cemetery, 1419 Leonard Road, Troupsburg, NY. Lunch will be served at the Troupsburg Firehall after the burial. In lieu of flowers, please consider a memorial contribution to Hospice Buffalo or The American Cancer Society.