Crane, Mary (Alberts) of Wellesley, Massachusetts, passed away peacefully on August 5, 2026, surrounded by her loving family.
Mary was born on June 19, 1929, and grew up in the Allston section of Boston. One Friday evening at Irish Hall at Boston College, she met a handsome young man, Bob Crane, from neighboring Brighton. They were married on September 9, 1950, at St. Anthony's Church in Allston, beginning a love story that spanned nearly seven decades, including 67 years of marriage.
Mary and Bob were blessed with five children—Mary Lou, Patricia, Robert Jr., David, and Jeanne. Mary devoted herself to her family, creating a loving home and instilling the values of hard work, kindness, and faith that shaped each of her children into accomplished adults. Mary later embraced her roles as grandmother and great-grandmother with the same love and devotion. Her grandchildren adored their Nana and especially treasured the summers they shared in Truro, Cape Cod.
Mary was Bob's steadfast partner in family life, public service, and his distinguished career, including his years as the longest-serving State Treasurer in the history of the Commonwealth. Those who knew Mary admired her grace, intelligence, wit, compassion, and deep faith. A standout student at Mt. Saint Joseph Academy, she was later recognized with its prestigious Women of Excellence Award.
While her family was always her greatest priority, Mary also devoted herself to her community. She was an active member of Our Lady of the Presentation in Brighton and St. Paul's Church in Wellesley; and served on the Board of Catholic Charities of Boston helping to guide the organization's philanthropic mission. After raising her family, she joined Issues Management, a leading Beacon Hill public affairs firm, where she built a successful second career.
In retirement, Mary and Bob shared a love of the beach, golf, bridge, and an incredible circle of friends. She enjoyed every part of her golden years and will be remembered for her laughter, her love of music, and, above all, her love of family.
Mary is survived by her five children: Mary Lou Crane Ryan and her husband, Robert Ryan; Patricia Crane and her husband, Robert Kozik; Robert Q. Crane, Jr. and his partner, Pattrapon Binmahood; David Crane and his wife, Mary Beth; and Jeanne Crane.
She is also survived by her six grandchildren and five great-grandchildren: Patrick Ryan-Southern and his husband, Michael; David Ryan and his wife, Nicole; Matthew Crane and his wife, Morgan; Katherine Crane; Thomas Crane and his fiancée, Colleen D’Alessandro; and Peter Crane and his wife, Megan Kingsley.
She was predeceased by her beloved husband, Robert Q. Crane; her parents, Francis J. Alberts and Helen O'Hara Alberts; and her sister, Helen Alberts Powell.
Visitation at the George F. Doherty & Sons Funeral Home, 477 Washington St. Wellesley on Wednesday, August 12, from 4-7pm. Funeral from the funeral home on Thursday, August 13, at 9am followed by a Funeral Mass in St. Paul Church, Wellesley at 10am. Relatives and friends kindly invited. Interment in Woodlawn Cemetery, Wellesley. Expressions of sympathy may be made in Mary’s memory to The Catholic TV Network, P.O. Box 9196, Watertown, MA 02471.