Mary Clarke

Mary Margaret Clarke (nee Flynn) passed away peacefully on November 21, 2021 at her home in Brooklyn, surrounded by family. She was 92. In 1948, Mary immigrated to NYC from a small farm in Fearnaught, Annaduff, Co. Leitrim, Ireland. On August 31st 1963, she married her soul mate, Patrick Clarke. She is survived by her five children John (Whitney), Patrick (Amanda), Brian (Ann Marie), Mary Jane (Robert) and Cathleen (Sam). As well as 13 grandchildren Finn, Ciara, Sabrina, Patrick, Caitlin, Lili, Dylan, William, Maeve, James, Liam, Una and Orla.

In addition to her husband, Patrick, Mary was predeceased by her parents, Patrick and Brigid Flynn, and her siblings Brigid Reinson, Kathleen Reilly, Theresa Flynn, Elizabeth Flynn and John Flynn.

After graduating from Grace Institute in NYC, Mary worked at Ingersoll Rand as a secretary. When her children were older, Mary returned to work as the school secretary at Our Lady of the Angelus (OLA) elementary school in Rego Park. At OLA, she found a wonderful community of lifelong friends. She was also an active member of The Parents & Students of Irish Dancing & Music Society where she celebrated Irish culture.

She lived her life with faith, humor, and love. All who knew her will remember her laugh and love of a good party. Mary’s door was always open and the kettle was on for a cup of tea. She was a loving, caring and devoted Aunt to all her nieces and nephews. Her niece, Margaret, fondly called her “Auntie May”.

Friends and family are welcome to celebrate Mary’s life with us.

Wake is Friday, November 26th from 3-8 pm Duffy’s/MJ Smith & Sons Funeral Home 255 9th Street Brooklyn, NY 11215. Funeral Mass is Saturday, November 27th at 10 am Immaculate Heart of Mary Church 2805 Ft. Hamilton Parkway Brooklyn, NY 11218.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Make a Wish Foundation at the following link https://secure2.wish.org/site/SPageServer?pagename=donate_today&chid=100-000,