Her greatest joy was family
MELROSE — Mary Elizabeth (Donovan) Crowther, 92, passed away peacefully at home surrounded by her family on September 27.
Born on April 24, 1933, Mary was the daughter of Edward J. and Mary E. (McCormick) Donovan. A lifelong resident of Melrose, she graduated from St. Mary’s High School in 1951. Mary began her career with the New England Telephone Company before becoming a medical secretary for Dr. Jako in Melrose where she worked for more than 20 years. She later retired to enjoy time with her many friends and the growing family that became her greatest joy.
She was the beloved wife of the late Andrew W. Crowther with whom she shared a long and devoted marriage. Together they raised four children who were the pride of her life: Andrew W. Crowther Jr. (Jody) of Lynnfield; Maureen E. Rice (Steven) of Melrose; Robert E. Crowther (Dottie) of Boxford; and James F. Crowther of Melrose. Mary’s legacy shines through her 12 grandchildren: Julie (Crowther) Spinale, Brian, Andrew and Joseph Crowther, Michael and Kevin Rice, Robert, Ryan, Daniel, Brianne and Brendan Crowther and James Crowther; and her seven great-grandchildren: Samuel and Josie Spinale, Ava and Colin Crowther, Diana and William Guzman and Ariella Crowther. She is also survived by her sister Sheila Enwright and many nieces and nephews. She was predeceased by her siblings Patricia Rossino, Edward Donovan and Jane Bushee.
Mary will be remembered for her quick wit, warm smile and unwavering devotion to her family. Her faith, kindness and joyful outlook on life touched all who knew her. She leaves behind a legacy of love that will continue to live on in the stories, traditions and memories shared by her family and friends.
Visiting hours will be held on Friday, October 3 from 9:30 to 11:30 a.m. at the Gately Funeral Home, 79 W. Foster St., Melrose followed by a Mass of christian burial at St. Mary’s Church, 4 Herbert St., Melrose at 12 p.m. Interment will follow at Wyoming Cemetery, Melrose. Relatives and friends are respectfully invited to attend.
The family would like to extend their heartfelt gratitude to the staff at the Dana-Farber Cancer Institute in Boston for the kindness, patience and support they provided to Mary. Memorial contributions may be made to Dana Farber, donate.cancer.org or to St Mary’s Church, 46 Myrtle St., Melrose, MA 02176. Visit gatelyfh.com.