Mary Ahern Torchio passed away at home on October 6, 2026, peacefully and surrounded by family, after a courageous battle with cancer.
Mary was a devoted and loving wife to her husband, Michael. She was a caring and supportive mother to her two sons, Michael and Patrick. Mary was also “Nana” to her grandchild, Rose, and treasured her time with her.
In addition to her immediate family, Mary was a beloved sister, aunt, and great-aunt to many. Her siblings Kathy Gould and her husband Kevin of Duxbury, Sheila Pasquantonio and her husband Steve of Randolph, Peggy Hayes and her husband Billy of East Bridgewater, and Frank Ahern and his wife Mary Lou of Pembroke were some of the people she held dearest in her heart. Mary continued to hold her deceased brother, Timmy, in her heart as well. Family was at the center of Mary’s world, and her many nieces, nephews, and grandnieces and grandnephews knew her generosity and kindness well.
Mary’s strength was unmistakable. She was never a complainer, even through the many treatments and procedures as she fought her years long battle with cancer. She felt that even if her treatments did not help her, she was hopeful that they could help someone else who is dealing with the disease in the future. Throughout her last years she remained positive, courageous, and went on several family trips to cherish her time with loved ones.
Before retiring, Mary worked for decades with children as an educator in schools. Her students benefited from Mary’s dedication and warmth. She was a beloved member of the Oakdale and Greenlodge school community.
In addition to Mary’s devotion to family and helping others, she will be remembered for her sense of humor, positive spirit, and curiosity. Mary was an avid reader and could often be found in her comfy chair engrossed in her kindle. She was a proud Red Sox and Patriots fan.
Mary was a force to be reckoned with. She was strong, loyal, kind, and endlessly generous. Mary was deeply loved and her family will miss her dearly. Her family believes that she will live on in our beautiful memories and our hearts and will continue to guide us.
Family and friends are invited to honor and celebrate Mary’s life on Friday, October 9, 2026, from 4:00-7:00 PM at the George F. Doherty & Sons Wilson-Cannon Funeral Home, 456 High Street in Dedham. Her funeral will be held on Saturday, October 10, 2026 at 10:00AM at St Mary’s Church, 420 High Street in Dedham (accessible parking in the rear of the church). Interment in Brookdale Cemetery, Dedham.
In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made in Mary’s memory to Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, 450 Brookline Avenue Boston, MA 02215, or any donations helping in the research of melanoma.