Mary Lou Hegarty

Mary Lou Hegarty was born August 16, 1933 in Worcester Massachusetts. She was the youngest of two children to Frank Price and Louise Stephens (Golden) Norris. Mary Lou married Roderick James Hegarty on September 25, 1954 and they were married for 49 years.

Mary Lou loved the military life, and what it stood for and where it led her in travel, adventures and friendships. She wore many hats in life, Wife, Mom, Nana, Daughter, Sister, Aunt and Friend.

Mary Lou was a “Stay at Home Mom” until 1978 when she took a part-time job at Papillion High School working in the afternoons. When all the kids were out of the house and in college, Mary Lou went back to college herself, and became an Addictions Counselor. Mary Lou loved to give advice and see people through rough times. Mary Lou left the world of employment and started on a course of volunteerism in which she found her niche and joy. She could do just about anything her heart desired and did so by her own desire and schedules. Mary Lou loved being busy and social and wasn’t afraid to get involved and learn new aspects of the arts, music and recreation.

Mary Lou had a knack for humor and a heart for adventure. She loved to travel. Her family was her world, and her warmth knew no bounds, she lived life on her terms and never met a stranger.

Mary Lou had a special way of showing appreciation to everyone for their help and service. She filled the world with laughter and love, always trying to spread joy and kindness to all, while loving her family and friends to no end. Mary Lou’s legacy is a reminder to us all to live life, fully love generously and always keep an open heart.

Mary Lou’s legacy includes five children: Raymond James (Kathy) Hegarty, Michael Glenn (Ann) Hegarty, Catherine Louise (Dave) Welch, Mark Brian (Elizabeth) Hegarty, and Laura Ann (Steve) White. Eleven Grandchildren: Katie (Gabriel) Aragon, Erin Hegarty (fiancé Mike Tremonte), Amy (Joe) Braun, Christine (Bill) McAllister, Tyler, Chase and Molly Welch, Britt (Conor) Darrow, Haley Hegarty, Drew (April) White, Nate (Megan) White. Fifteen Great Grandchildren- Carmen (Wesley) Peck, Gabriel, Marisa and Christopher Aragon, Sawyer and Georgia Braun, Elliott and William McAllister, Palmer Welch, Liam and Rowan Darrow, Henry and James White and Darcy and Theo White. Four- Great-Great Grandchildren- Luna, Raymond, Phoenix and Novalie Peck. Many nieces and nephews whom she cared deeply for. Mary Lou was preceded in death by husband Roderick James Hegarty, son Raymond James Hegarty and daughter Catherine Louise Welch, her Parents, In-Law’s and Brother.

Let's honor her spirit by cherishing our loved ones today.

Memorial service to be held on Monday October 21st at 11:00 at Thanksgiving Church 3702 370th Plaza Ave Bellevue NE. Private family inurnment at Omaha National Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, memorials suggested to Sarpy County CASA or PEO Chapter HC.