It is with deep sorrow that we announce the passing of our beloved mother, Mary Ann McGann, who passed away peacefully on November 3, 2024, at the age of 94. A woman of profound faith, boundless love, and effervescent optimism, she inspired all who knew her to become better versions of themselves.

Born on July 27, 1930, in Barrie, Ontario, Mary Ann lived a life circumscribed by devotion to her family, her faith, her friends and her community. As a devoted mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother, she took immense pride in the well-being and happiness of her loved ones. Therefore, she cultivated a vast and loving network that surrounded her at every stage of her life.

Faith was the cornerstone of Mary Ann’s life. She lived each day with a steadfast belief in God’s grace and a deep sense of purpose. She was an active member of St. Catherine of Sienna Parish for 67 years, where she served as a member of the choir, a lector and for a short term, as the Parish secretary. Throughout her life she sought to deepen her understanding of the bible and her relationship with Jesus. She was progressive in her use of technology to access daily Catholic online podcasts and bible studies. This also enabled her to stream the Sunday masses at the parish attended by her son Joe and his wife Rita. If she noted that Rita and/or Joe had been absent on any given Sunday, she was sure to follow up with an immediate phone call. We suspect she did this to be part of our faith community, to be mindful of our well-being however, we suspect there was an underlying motive to monitor our attendance!

Mary Ann set an example of discipline and a strong work ethic. She had a 25-year career as an executive assistant to the owner and president of Burt Mumby and Associates. She was so good at her job that when Burt retired, his son insisted she stay on rather than retire herself.

After retiring from her professional career, Mary Ann turned her attention to serving others. For 10 years she volunteered in the kindergarten classroom taught by Theresa Regan at St. Timothy Catholic School. Theresa became her dear friend and an extended member of our family. Mary Ann also supported her neighbors and numerous charities and assisted weekly at a local senior home.

It would be remiss to overlook Mary Ann’s other lively attributes. She was always up for an adventure and travelled internationally with her husband Joe and later with all members of her family. She also participated in three pilgrimages to Israel, Turkey, and the Passion Play in Oberammergau. She had a sharp and curious mind, excelling in all manner of card games and keeping abreast of current events. She loved dancing, theatre, Hollywood classic movies, and hot sunny days. She loved family gatherings centered around meals that weren’t complete without a dessert. She was acclaimed for her butter tarts.

Mary Anne’s legacy of faith, service and love will live on in the hearts of all who knew her. Mary Ann is predeceased by her husband Eugene Joseph McGann and her brother Calvin Hamilton. She leaves behind her children Joseph McGann (Rita), Maureen Allen (Jim), Patricia McGann, her grandchildren Michelle (Rob), Suzanne (Shannon), Caitlin (Brett), Leeza, and her great-grandchildren Ava and Will.

Friends may call at the Turner & Porter “Peel” Chapel, 2180 Hurontario St., Mississauga (HWY 10 N. of QEW), on Friday, November 22, 2024 from 4-6 p.m. A funeral Mass will be held at the St. Catherine of Sienna Parish, 2340 Hurontario St., on Saturday, November 23, 2024 at 9:30 a.m. followed by burial at St. Mary’s cemetery. Reception to follow at Peel Chapel.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to The Society of St. Vincent de Paul, 240 Church St. Toronto Ontario, M5B 1Z2 - a cause close to Mary Ann’s heart.