Mary J. McGrail

Mary J. McGrail, 83, of Rockville, RI passed away after a brief illness on Thursday, December 30th at the Rhode Island Hospital in Providence.

She was the daughter of the late Peter J. and Kathryn (Burke) McGrail. Mary was born on March 14, 1938. She was the loving partner and loyal friend of 30 years to the late Nancy Elizabeth Norbert. She leaves her three nieces Kathleen McGee, Jacqueline McGrail and Mary McGrail of Worcester and her dear friend, Eileen Hannon of North Providence.

Mary was predeceased by her brothers John P. McGrail and his wife Ann and William F. McGrail.

Mary enjoyed her regular visits to Foxwoods, was an avid reader and sports fan. She was her happiest when spending time with her family and friends. In retirement Mary was able to spend her days with her beloved golden retrievers, Chance and Sunshine and her cat, Pudge.

Mary’s life was a life of service. She began her career as a Junior High School teacher in Worcester, MA where she also worked with emotionally disturbed adolescents and the incarcerated. She went on to become a school principal and then the Administrator at several facilities for those suffering from substance abuse and mental health disorders.

Mary was instrumental in bringing treatment for those with co-occurring disorders to RI when she began her career with Tri-Hab as the Clinical Specialist at King House for women and the Men’s house, both long-term residential programs.

After retiring in 2016 Mary returned to the work she loved as the Manager for the Hope and Recovery Line for the State of RI. She continued to touch lives daily.

If you met Mary once, you remembered her forever. Her generosity of spirit will live on in the hearts of all who knew her love and compassion. To honor Mary, if you see someone in need please reach out your hand and show kindness to them.

In lieu of flowers please consider a donation in her name to her favorite charity NEADS, located at 305 Redemption Rock Trail, Princeton, MA 01541. This organization gives dogs the opportunity to help those who need a “helper”.

At her request, all services will be private.

All arrangements have been entrusted to S.R. Avery Funeral Home 3A Bank St., Hope Valley, RI.

For online condolences, please visit www.averyfuneralhome.com
 

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