Megan Susan McAveney

Megan was born in Washington, D.C., to William Joseph McAveney and Moira Hurley McAveney on May 18, 1972. She spent the majority of her life in Springfield, Virginia, and was an active member of St. Bernadette Catholic Parish. A proud 1994 graduate of James Madison University, she spent her career working as a Human Resource Specialist in the Department of Defense.

Fiercely independent, Megan overcame many difficulties in life. At age 15, she developed encephalopathy as a result of a viral infection, leaving her with neurological impairments including epilepsy, muted speech, and associated physical limitations. She dismissed being labeled “Wonder Woman”, but those who were lucky enough to know her marveled at her ability to persevere despite the challenges she faced daily. Her pride in her accomplishments, including earning a Bachelor's Degree, owning her own home, and having a successful 25-year career with the U.S Government, was well-placed. Music was an important part of Megan’s life, not only through her talents as a pianist, but also playing 80s music at full volume. Prior to her illness, Megan was a beautiful singer, but subsequently would “feel the music inside [her]” and use her hands to sing where her voice failed her. She enjoyed Star Trek, Little House on the Prairie, Harry Potter, counted cross-stitch, holidays, scrap-booking, solving Sudoku puzzles, re-reading her favorite childhood books, and cartoons such as Far Side and Peanuts. Megan loved to talk and share stories, even though her voice—shaped by illness—could be hard to understand. In a world that often moved too fast, her voice asked others to slow down. She deeply appreciated anyone who took the time and patience to truly listen. Misunderstandings didn’t upset her—they often made her laugh. Megan loved her family and friends deeply. She cherished time spent at family gatherings and going to movies and musicals with friends, always finding joy in connection, laughter, and being heard.

Megan was the beloved daughter of the (late) Moira Hurley McAveney, M.D., and William Joseph McAveney, M.D. She was the cherished older sister of Kathleen Campbell (Christopher Campbell), William McAveney (Victoria Carroll), John Paul McAveney (Selena McAveney), the (late) Francis McAveney, and Marianne Jeffries (Jacob Jeffries). Megan was the loving aunt to Aiden, Bridget, and Maeve Campbell; Colm and Kian McAveney; and Tierney, Brayden, and Jack Jeffries. She was also treasured by many aunts, uncles, cousins, and friends.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to The Epilepsy Foundation.

A funeral service will be held on Monday June 30, 2025 at 11 AM at St. Bernadette Catholic Church in Springfield, Virginia.

Reception to follow at the Knights of Columbus Hall at All Saints Catholic Parish, 9290 Stonewall Road, Manassas, VA.