Mary J. McCann, 84, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, June 24, 2025, at Waccamaw Community Hospital. Born on June 30,1940, in Inverness, Cape Breton, Nova Scotia, she was the daughter of the late John Hugh and Maryann MacIsaac.
Mary married the love of her life, Anthony B. McCann, and together they raised their family in Methuen, Massachusetts. In 1984, Mary and Tony moved to Lincoln, New Hampshire, where they proudly owned and operated the Kancamagus Motor Lodge for 18 years. After selling the lodge, they joyfully embraced retirement—spending nine months each year in Vieques, Puerto Rico, and traveling across the United States in their motorhome during the remaining months.
Following Tony’s passing in 2021, Mary continued to live a vibrant life, dividing her time between South Carolina, her condo in Englewood, Florida, and visits to Concord and Derry, New Hampshire, where she remained close to family.
Mary is lovingly remembered by her four children and their spouses: Sherry McCann-Nehme & Joseph Nehme, Shane McCann & Kathy, Dean McCann & Carolyn, and Bryan McCann & Ashley. She was a proud and devoted grandmother to 13 grandchildren: Joseph (Monika), James, Jenna, John-Michael, Jessica, Sarah, Patrick (Kathryn), Kyle, Shayne (Brittany), Kacie (Jordan), Hardin Belle, Augustus, and Eleanor; and a cherished great-grandmother to Colton and Liam Anthony. Mary is also survived by her beloved siblings: Six brothers—Doug, Jack, Leo, John, Dan, and Jimmy; and six sisters—Hughwena, Terri, Margie, Chris, Debbie, and Joanne; along with many dear nieces, nephews, and extended family members. She was predeceased by her husband of 60 years, Anthony B. McCann, as well as one of her brothers, Neil, and one sister, Eleanor.
Mary was a woman of many talents and passions. She loved to cook, host family and friends, always creating warm, welcoming spaces wherever she lived. She also enjoyed painting, often inspired by the beauty around her. Most of all, Mary loved the beach - whether in Vieques or closer to home, the ocean always brought her peace and joy.
Mary will be remembered for her adventurous spirit, her deep love for family, and the joyful life she built with Tony. Her warmth, resilience, and unwavering devotion will live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved her.
Calling hours will be held on Tuesday July 8th from 8:30 – 10:30am in the Peabody Funeral Homes and Crematorium, 15 Birch Street, Derry. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Tuesday at 11:00am in St. Thomas Aquinas Parish, 26 Crystal Ave., Derry. The burial will follow in the Forest Hill Cemetery, East Derry. Memorial contributions may be made to St. Jude Children's Hospital.