Mary Rita MacDonald

Mary R. (McCann) MacDonald Born in Lowell, MA Loving wife, mother and grandmother CROFTON, MD - Mary Rita (McCann) MacDonald 96, the beloved wife of the late John J. MacDonald passed away peacefully on December 10, 2010. Born on November 27, 1914, daughter of the late Joseph H. McCann and Wilhelmina A. (Wagenbach) McCann. Mary was educated in the Lowell schools and graduated from Lowell High School class of 1932 a member of the National Honor Society. Upon graduation she worked in Boston for the Department of Education. On June 15, 1942 she married John J. MacDonald from Portsmouth New Hampshire. Mary and John lived in Portsmouth for the next 25 years and raised their six children. She was an active member of Immaculate Conception Church and St. James Parish. In 1967 her husband was transferred to Washington DC. The family moved and settled in Bowie, Maryland. In Maryland, Mary continued to raise her family and work in the community. Mary was active in her church, Sacred Heart Parish and in the Woman's League of Voters. Following their retirement Mary and John moved to Ormond Beach, Florida where they enjoyed 20 years of retirement living. She was a member of St. Brendan's Church. After the death of her husband in 1998 Mary re-located to Chelmsford MA to be closer to her family and friends still in the area. This was a special time for her to go back to Lowell and see where she grew up and reminisce with friends. Mary was an avid reader. She enjoyed needlework and playing Bridge for many years. Her greatest joy was spending time with her children and grandchildren. Family was the most important part of her life. Mrs. MacDonald is survived by her five children Judith A. Markowski of Macedon NY, John J. MacDonald Jr. of Leonard OK, Claire R. Rideout of Davidsonville MD, Mary C. Latus of Palm Springs CA and Elizabeth M. Hedeman of Westford MA. Ten grandchildren and seven great grandchildren also many nieces and nephews. Her infant son David F. MacDonald and brother Joseph F. McCann preceded her in death.