Obituary of Mary T. McGrath

NORWALK, CONN Mary Theresa McGrath (nee McDonagh), 96, of Norwalk, passed peacefully in her sleep on July 10, 2026, at Notre Dame Health & Rehab. Born and raised in the Bronx, NY, Mary was the daughter of the late Bridget "Beatrice" McDonagh (nee O'Brien) of Killavoggy, Co. Leitrim, and Patrick Frances McDonagh of Ballinleg, Kilmactranny, Co. Sligo, Ireland. Mary was married to the love of her life, the late John George McGrath, and enjoyed 55 years of marriage. She retired after 26 years as a teacher's aide at Tracey Elementary School, helping children with learning disabilities. Mary loved classic movies like The Quiet Man and The Russians are Coming! She enjoyed all kinds of music from Irish trad to Bob Marley. Mary was thrilled meeting Irish Tenors and Joanie Madden and Nollaig Casey from Cherish the Ladies at Christmas time. Mary's fun-loving spirit was a panic and she would break up any moment, spreading laughter through surgeries and life's challenges. Mary's sunny smile and giggling lifted spirits wherever she went. She became a favorite with her smile and mischief in her eyes. The song "When Irish Eyes Are Smiling" surely must have been written about Mary. Mary enjoyed visiting Calf Pasture Beach, watching ocean waves, seagulls, and sunsets from her porch. Mary loved baking goodies (even though they didn't come out so good sometimes). Her dinners were amazing even when the roasted chicken hit the floor. Mary's face would light up being whisked to her favorite place: O'Neill's Pub & Restaurant, where she was treated like their own Great Aunt Mary with sweet potato fries and chocolate ice cream awaiting her. Survived by daughters Theresa Hollerbach of Bridgeport, Barbara Brueski and son-in-lawMichael of Norwalk, her son Mark McGrath and daughter-in-law Megan of Stratford, grandchildren: Timothy Hollerbach of Bridgeport, Tina Ollis of Myrtle Beach, Stefan Brueski of Norwalk, Sarah Brueski (and fiancé Mike Rivnak) of White Plains, Margaux Albert (and husband Ivan) of Pittsburgh, Myles Atkins of Chicopee, MA, and great-grandchild Michael Ollis of Myrtle Beach. Her children and grandchildren were the light of her life. Mary was predeceased by three brothers and five sisters: Catherine Rogan, Nora McGrath, William McDonough, Mary Beatrice McDonough, Ann Umlauft, Patrick Joseph McDonough, Gloria McDonough, John McDonough, and a granddaughter, Stephanie Franco. Heartfelt thanks to Susan Barnett, who lovingly became the daughter of Mary's heart, a constant source of love and support. Also, special thanks to Harris Greenberger, DPM, assistants Anna and Sondra for years of amazing care, love and treating Mary like one of their own. The family would like to extend deepest gratitude to Sister Marie Lucie Monast, SSTV & RN, Sister Francois Golder, Dr. Richard Huntley, amazing angels Wanda, Rachel, Nadine, Jean, Mira, Witka, Opal (former nurse), and the entire staff of Notre Dame for treating Mary like their own mother for the last ten years. In lieu of flowers, Mary encouraged a love donation to Notre Dame Health & Rehab, 76 West Rocks Rd., Norwalk, CT 06851, Attn: Sister Lucie to help continue their loving and expert care. Mary's wishes were to be happy for her and, instead of formal attire, to wear your green and any Irish attire proudly on her day. Visiting hours are Friday, July 24, 4- 8 p.m. at Collins Funeral Home, 92 East Ave., Norwalk. Saturday, July 25, calling hours are 9:00-10:30 am at Collins, followed by interment at Willowbrook Cemetery, 395 Main St., Westport. Ar dheis Dé go raibh a anam dílis. (at the right hand of God was His faithful soul)