1940
2016
Mary Clare Leahey, 76, of Williamsburg, passed away on August 19, 2016 after a battle with Multiple Sclerosis lasting many years. Throughout this struggle, Mary remained determined and strong.
Mary was born on August 11, 1940 in Boston, Massachusetts. She was the daughter of the late Francis J. Daly and the late Mary A. Daly.
Mary was a loving wife of Charles F. Leahey, and together they had four children and resided in California, Connecticut and eventually settled in Fairfax, Virginia. They were married for 51 wonderful years.
In addition to her beloved husband, Chuck, Mary leaves behind to cherish her memory her children, Kathleen Drumheller of Richmond, Virginia, Charlie Leahey of Vashon, Washington, John Leahey and his wife, Mary, of Boulder, Colorado and Maureen Leahey of Virginia Beach, Virginia, her brother Frank Daly of Baton Rouge, Louisiana, her sister-in-law Rose Mary Newlon of Apple Valley, California, her two grandchildren and a niece and nephews. She is predeceased by her brother, Robert Daly and son-in-law, Ken Drumheller.
For Mary, teaching was not only her profession, but also her passion. A graduate of Boston State College, she dedicated many years teaching elementary school and most recently taught first grade at Corpus Christi Catholic School in Falls Church, Virginia before retiring in 1998. We will miss those stories of "her" kids that she taught and she remembered almost every one.
She also enjoyed singing in the Joyful Noise choir at St. Mary of Sorrows Church in Fairfax, Virginia and was a devoted Catholic and member of St. Bede Catholic Church in Williamsburg, Virginia.
Mary was also an avid reader and cross-stitcher and knitter.
A funeral Mass will be celebrated at St. Bede Catholic Church, 3686 Ironbound Road, Williamsburg, Virginia at 11:00AM on Tuesday, August 23, 2016. The family will receive friends at the church following Mass.
In lieu of flowers, those wishing to make a memorial contribution may wish to consider donating to the National MS Society or the Hampton Roads MS chapter. Online condolences to the family may be made at www.nelsencares.com.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
August 31, 2016
Theresa Aguilera
I only got to know Mary for a short time before she passed, but I know her legacy every day through her beautiful son and grandson. I feel so lucky for the few phone calls and cards we exchanged. As a hopeful first grade teacher, I'm inspired by her commitment to teaching. When I use her recipe for Apple pie, I think about how lucky the world was to have her in it and how glad I am to have her recipes. Her commitment to her kids, "her" kids, and her marriage make me feel so lucky to know her, even for a brief time, and to get to know her family.
August 26, 2016
Chuck, Kathleen, Charlie and John:
The video is a wonderful tribute to Mary and your life together.
Thank you.
Mary Lou
August 25, 2016
Brian Wise
Chuck, I am sadden to hear this news of Mary's passing. As I sit and write this message, my heart is sinking. You and Mary have always been very kind, sweet, wonderful and loving. Chuck, although I never told you, you are one of my role models. The way you cared for and your love for Mary demonstrates the power of Love and all the great things about it. The physical lost of Mary will be missed greatly. Her Love and Spirit will last as long as I live. Brian Wise
August 25, 2016
Chuck and Family,
Mary was such a valued member of our book club. Her insightful and thoughtful comments during book discussions were always spot on. But best of all was the mischievous gleem in her eye when she had a negative comment about the book!
Her wit, zest for life and can do spirit made her someone to emulate. May these qualities live on in all of you and give you peace.
Patricia Thomas, Chesapeake,Va
August 24, 2016
Lydia Mayo
My deepest sympathy to all of you. Mary fought long and hard against a terrible disease. She will be missed.
August 24, 2016
Lynette Hopson
Chuck,
You and your family will be in my prayers as Mary will forever be in my memories. I will always remember her determination in the pool and her push to keep me positive when I wasn't in the mood. Her strength is a part of my strength.
August 23, 2016
Amy Wolf
Leahy family
Sorry for your loss she was a joy to take care
Of she was a fighter and always happy she will be truly missed thanks for letting me come in your home take care god bless your family. Amy wolf comfortkeepers caregiver
August 22, 2016
Charlie Leahey
Watertown, MA lost a lovely ambassador when Mary Clare Leahey died. In looking back at her wedding photos and seeing some of her first grade students in attendance, my hope is that, all these years later, they will know that Miss Daly passed away peacefully and led a life full of loving both her students and her husband and children.
Teachers may not be famous but they do end up influencing so many people during their career/calling. I hope that Mary's students from both Massachusetts and Virginia remember her fondly as she did them. You would not believe how much she spoke of you all to her family.
Please remember that, no matter how long we live, life is ultimately short. Cherish each day and those you love. You'll never regret it.
August 21, 2016
Jacqueline Clemons
My deepest condolences and sympathy go out to The Leahey Family. Chuck, Kathy, Charlie and Maureen thanks for giving me the opportunity to care for Mary. Her light will forever shine through all of you and her grandchildren. Remember GOD only puts the best flowers in HIS garden. GOD BLESS
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