Mary C Donahue

Mary Crowley Donahue, of Yarmouth Port, MA, passed away peacefully on June 2, 2025, surrounded by her loving family on Cape Cod. She was born in West Roxbury, Massachusetts, on June 20, 1936, to William and Rita (Ireland) Crowley. She was predeceased by her dear brother William Crowley.

Mary was a cherished wife, mother, daughter, sister, aunt, and friend. She met her beloved husband, Joseph Donahue of Belmont, MA, on Cape Cod. Together, they shared 62 beautiful, laughter-filled years, living in Needham, Holden, and enjoyed their retirement years on the Cape.

Family was at the heart of Mary’s life. She was the proud mother of three children: Joseph Donahue of Holden and his wife, Mickey, Mary Beth Donahue of Chevy Chase, MD, and William Donahue of Holden and his late wife, Colleen. She had unconditional love for her four grandchildren: Brandan, Caitlin, Ireland and Bray Donahue. Mary treasured every moment with them—cheering them on from the sidelines, knitting hats and scarves for them, hosting their special celebrations, or showing no mercy in a game of Scrabble.

She was a graduate of Holy Cross Academy and Cardinal Cushing College. She dedicated her professional life to the Harvard Graduate School of Education and Assumption College. Her greatest devotion was always to her family.

An avid Red Sox fan, Mary always had faith in her team and never missed a chance to watch them on TV or listen to them on the radio, often late into the night (and even in pre-season!). One of her most cherished memories was celebrating her 80th birthday at Fenway Park with her family—and proudly showing off her autograph from Red Sox legend Bobby Doerr. She also enjoyed cheering for her husband and daughter’s alma mater, the Boston College Eagles.

Mary brought that same competitive spirit to the golf course, where she was the President of the Women’s golf league at her adored Kings Way Golf Course. She also found great joy and peace in her garden, tending lovingly to her beautiful flowers.

Mary will be remembered for her warm hospitality, steadfast devotion to family, and quiet strength, which she carried with grace through her final days. She had a gift for making everyone feel welcome through her warm and calming presence.

Mary’s family invites you to join them in celebrating her life at Doane Beal and Ames, 729 Route 134, South Dennis, MA on Monday, June 9th from 4-7pm. Funeral mass will be held at Our Lady of the Cape, 468 Stony Brook Rd, Brewster, MA on Tuesday, June 10th at 11am.