Mary Lynn Hepburn-O’Shea

Mary Lynn Hepburn-O’Shea, 89, of Lincoln, passed away on December 29, 2022.

Private family services to be held.

Share a Memory or Condolence

January 3, 2023

During my career working with people with developmental disabilities and their families, I had many interactions with Mary. Her facilities provided safe and clean housing in the community for people whose needs were sometimes difficult to meet. To her friends and family, I am sorry for your loss. With sincere sympathy

– Ellen Moeller

January 3, 2023

Mary was a pioneer in behavorial health services. She challenged a system of reliance on institutional services and care and filled the gap in community services and supports. Her philosophy was one of respect and dignity. She will be missed.

– Mary Jo Iwan

January 3, 2023

Mary took me in after living for a year with a couple who ended up moving out of state. She also took in my brother, Tom, and my sister Jane. We lived with the Hepburn family for one year. She had six of her own children and then took in three more children! She wanted me to learn how to play the organ so I remember taking lessons at the music store downtown on O street. Mary was an accomplished organist. Her family modeled after her kindness and I can never thank them enough for opening The Victorian. Thank you Mary and the example you set for how to love people with mental illness. You made a huge contribution to Lincoln.

– Joan Ruth Higgins-Smith

January 3, 2023

Her contribution to humanity is indescribable. Her work and dedication has made the world a better place. Our community was blessed beyond measure by her dedication and efforts. May her memory continue to be a blessing.

– Jane Metcalf Haire

January 3, 2023

Mary was an incredible woman who gave so much of herself to support and advocate for those with mental health issues. She also loved to travel, going all around the world with my father. My deepest sympathies to her children and grandchildren.

– Kathleen O’Shea

January 3, 2023

Mary spent her life working to de-stigmatize mental illness. She believed that the afflicted and disadvantage should be able to live meaningful and fulfilling lives and worked to make this a reality.

– Sue and John O’Shea

January 3, 2023

My sincere condolences to Tim, Rob and all family members. Mary’s lasting legacy will be her tireless commitment to mental health issues. Together with my dad, Jack O’Shea, she spent years advocating for the rights of her clients and residents while treating them with dignity and respect. May she rest in peace.

– Karen O’Shea

January 2, 2023

My sincere condolences.

– Molly Collins

January 2, 2023

Mary is one of my favorite people I had the honor of knowing from Cathedral Light of the World. She loves her family fiercely and was so proud of each of you. I am so sorry for your loss.

– Marron Zimmer Keady

January 2, 2023

I only met Mrs. Hepburn-Oshea once but had worked in institutional services for over 30 yrs. Her name and reputation was well-known & respected. She worked hard to seve those least able to live independendtly. A truly kind human being.