Mary F. (Keenan) MacFarlane, 94, of New Bedford passed away peacefully on Thursday January 10, 2013 after a period of declining health.
Born on November 21, 1918 in Middletown, CT, she was the daughter of the late James and Frances (Lynch) Keenan.
In her youth Mary relocated to New Bedford where she remained. She was a graduate of New Bedford High School and St. Luke's Hospital School of Nursing, Class of 1941. In her later years, Mary attended Northeastern University where she earned a certificate as a pediatric nurse practitioner. This was an accomplishment that brought her much pride.
Mary was employed by the City of New Bedford as a public health nursing supervisor. Through the well-baby clinics she provided young mothers in the New Bedford area health care for their children.
Mary had many diverse and interesting passions. She enjoyed traveling, reading, and tracing her ancestral Irish roots. She also relished her time spent in Florida.
Mary was married to the late Joseph E. MacFarlane. She leaves three daughters, Anne Albino and her husband Donald of John's Creek, GA, MaryEllen Gamache and her husband George of Mashpee, and Janet MacFarlane and her companion James Stuart of Dartmouth, as well as a niece, Susan MacFarlane Dawson of New Bedford.
In addition Mary leaves six grandchildren and nine great-grandchildren. She was always excited to receive cards and photos providing updates on each.
At this time, Mary's family wishes to extend heartfelt thanks to the New Bedford Jewish Convalescent Home and Community Nurse and Hospice Care for the care, compassion, and support provided to Mary during her illness.
Her family will receive visitors at the Saunders-Dwyer Home for Funerals, 495 Park St., New Bedford on Saturday January 26, 2013 from 2-4 PM. A Memorial Mass will be celebrated on Friday May 10, 2013 9 AM at St. Lawrence Church. Private burial will be at the Massachusetts National Cemetery in Bourne. For directions and guestbook, please visit www.saundersdwyer.com.