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Mary Elizabeth McAuliffe, 89, of Westborough formerly of Worcester, died peacefully with family members by her side after a short illness on Tuesday, December 8th at UMASS Memorial Medical Center. She leaves and was beloved by numerous cousins on both the McAuliffe and McGovern sides of her family here in the United States and in Ireland. She was especially close to Michael O. McAuliffe and his wife Lisa, of Saint Augustine, FL, Paul McGovern and his family, Needham, Chris, and Terry McGovern and the entire McGovern family.
She was predeceased by a close cousin, John F. McAuliffe and by her three aunts, Mary, Grace and Helen with whom Mary had lived with and raised by after her mother passed away when Mary was very young; two of her closest friends, Rita Fraser and Barbara Eagan.
She was born in Worcester the daughter of Frederick J. and Rose A. (McGovern) McAuliffe who was World War I nurse. Mary was a devout and lifelong member of Immaculate Conception Church. She graduated from Notre Dame Academy in Tyngsborough, Emmanuel College in Boston, and the former Worcester State Teachers College.
While at Emmanuel College, Mary was one of several Biology Students who formed their own social “Club”. The “Club” became a close-knit group as their families grew and has continued to meet monthly for over the last 60 years enjoying numerous social engagements and luncheons, travel in the United States and abroad, and many fun adventures and activities. Mary loved to laugh and socialize and was well known for her gift of storytelling. She was a self-taught piano player who enjoyed playing at special functions and occasions and for friends. Mary loved children and all who met her were drawn to her warmth and joyous nature.
Like her Aunts before her, she devoted herself to education and worked for the Worcester Public Schools for over 30 years as a teacher and retired in 1993 from Forest Grove Middle School as a guidance counselor. She was an active and social member of the Walker Meadow Condo Association, Westborough, and a lifetime member of the Worcester Public Schools Association.
Growing up Mary became very close with the Frasier Family who had seven siblings and lived in her neighborhood; they considered her to be their aunt. Mary was a happy, nurturing and loving person who enjoyed spending time at her cottage in South Dennis where she entertained her friends and family. Everyone who met Mary, loved her.
The family would like the thank all of Mary’s CNA’s for their kindness, compassionate care, support and friendship they gave her, especially Tania Salamao.
Her funeral is Saturday, December 12th at 10:30 AM in Immaculate Conception Church, 353 Grove Street, Worcester. Burial will follow in St. John’s Cemetery, 260 Cambridge Street, Worcester. There are no calling hours. In lieu of flowers memorial contributions may be made to the McAuliffe Family Education Scholarship Fund, 17 Sheffield Way, Westborough, MA 01581 or the Immaculate Conception Church, 353 Grove Street, Worcester, MA 01605. O’CONNOR BROTHERS FUNERAL HOME, 592 Park Avenue, Worcester is assisting the family with arrangements.
Social Distancing and the use of face masks that cover the nose and mouth will be part of the protocol at all of Mary’s services. If you are unable to attend the funeral services, the Mass of Christian Burial will be available to watch on the funeral home website.