MARY FRANCES MCGRATH

LATHAM - Mary Frances (Wells) McGrath, 93, of Latham and formerly of Troy, passed away peacefully on May 10, 2025, at VanRensselaer Manor in Troy with her loving family at her side.

Born on April 7, 1932, she was the daughter of the late John and Katherine (Morris) Wells. Mary was a proud graduate of Catholic Central High School in Troy, Class of 1949. She married the love of her life, the late J. Gordon McGrath, and together they raised seven cherished children.

In addition to her role as a devoted wife and mother, Mary worked as a computer operator for Union National Bank and later the New York State Department of Taxation and Finance. Her greatest joy, however, was always her family. Mary held each member close in her heart, praying for them daily and never forgetting a birthday.

A devout Catholic, Mary was a long-time parishioner of St. Ambrose Church in Latham and formerly of Our Lady of the Assumption.

In addition to her parents and husband, Mary was predeceased by her brothers, Sidney Wells (Doris) and John Wells (late Doris) as well as dear friends Peggy McGrath and Shirley Schongar.

She is survived by her seven beloved children: Michael D. McGrath (Janet), Mary Ellen Laurin (late Donald), Linda A. King (Glen), Eileen P. Brink (John), Patricia M. Martin (Patrick), James G. McGrath (Terri Egan), and Sheila M. McGrath (Rob Shimer). Also survived by 27 grandchildren, 53 great-grandchildren, and one great-great-grandchild.

Mary's family wishes to express their heartfelt gratitude to the nurses and staff of Peregrine Senior Living at Colonie and VanRensselaer Manor for their devoted and compassionate care.

Relatives and friends are invited to attend calling hours on Thursday, May 15, 2025, from 4 to 7 p.m. at The Dufresne and Cavanaugh Funeral Home, 149 Old Loudon Rd., Latham. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Friday, May 16, at 10:30 a.m. at St. Ambrose Church, 347 Old Loudon Rd., Latham, with Rev. Kyle Gorenski, celebrant. Interment will follow in St. Peter's Cemetery, Troy, where she will be laid to rest beside her beloved husband.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Alzheimer's Association Northeastern New York Chapter at www.alz.org/northeasternny or St. Ambrose Church at www.stambroselatham.com/egiving.

To share a condolence or for more information, please visit www.dufresneandcavanaugh.com.

The legacy of Mary's love will live on forever. She is her family's inspiration to love deeply, work hard, give freely and be kind to all. They love her more than words can describe.