Mary Ann Hegarty

Portland - Mary Ann (Conley) Hegarty, 82, passed away January 16, 2018 at Maine Medical Center with her family by her side. Born in Portland on January 26, 1935, she was the daughter of the late Martin and Mary (Malia) Conley. Like so many who were raised in the West End, Mary Ann was proud of her Irish Heritage. She graduated from Cathedral High School in 1953. She was a communicant of the former St. Dominic's Church followed by St. John's in South Portland. In 1962, Mary Ann married the love of her life, Robert F. Hegarty. Together, they started a family and looked forward to the future. However, in 1972, their future together was abruptly changed due to the untimely death of her husband. As devastating as this was to the family, Mary Ann found the strength to raise her four children, putting their needs above her own. As a widowed mother, Mary Ann's loving devotion and deeply rooted Catholic faith gave her the strength to raise her children as a single mother. Throughout her life, Mary Ann's devotion and love for her late husband never changed. She spoke of him often and ensured that his memory was a very real presence in the lives of her young children. She was a caring, loyal and fun loving person who was passionate about politics. She worked several years at New England Rehabilitation Center where she enjoyed joking with her peers about their differences in political views. Mary Ann was known for cracking jokes even into her last days, stating that she wouldn't wish her illness on anyone, even certain politicians. Mary Ann centered her life around her family, which held the utmost importance. She cared for her children deeply, and adored her grandchildren. She will be deeply missed by all. In addition to her parents and husband, Mary Ann was predeceased by her son, Martin Hegarty in 2007; brothers, Martin, Bartley, Thomas and Patrick Conley. She is survived by her daughters, Kathleen DeMatteo and husband Mark of Plymouth, Massachusetts, Carol Plummer and husband Stephen of South Portland, and Patricia Andrus and husband Scott of South Portland; Mary Ann is also survived by her beloved grandchildren, Kaitlin, Ryan, Sophia and Tyler and several extended family members. Visiting Hours celebrating Mary Ann's life will be held from 4-7PM on Friday, January 19 at the Conroy-Tully Walker South Portland Chapel, 1024 Broadway, South Portland. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 10AM on Saturday, January 20 at Holy Cross Church, 124 Cottage Road, South Portland. Interment to follow at Calvary Cemetery, Broadway, South Portland. Those desiring may make memorial contributions to Holy Cross Church, 124 Cottage Road, South Portland, Maine 04106 or the American Heart Association, PO Box 417005, Boston, MA 02241