Mary Helen McDonough

Beloved wife, mother, "Nanny," educator, and friend, Mary Helen McDonough, 66, of Belton, passed away on May 17, 2025.

Mary Helen McDonough

She was born on August 1, 1958, in Mount Holly, New Jersey, to Murlin "Buzz" Earl Sawyer and Betty Sue Warnaca. She lived a life filled with whimsy, adventure, and deep care for others. Her creative spirit, generosity, love of her family, nature, and the environment defined her.

On September 19, 1981, she married Timothy M. McDonough, her high school sweetheart. They shared a lifetime of love, laughter, and partnership.

Mary was a devoted mother to five children: Daniel, Megan, Connor, David, and Sean. She found immense joy in her role as a grandmother, especially to her granddaughter, Rory Mary (5), who was named in her honor, and to Tinsley Rebecca (8). Her heart was full of love, and her hands always crafted something special for the people she loved. 

She was proud to be an educator and teacher in all aspects of her life. Raising five children while co-founding two businesses, she returned to school to earn her master's degree. She was always taking on a new project, learning a new skill, or avidly reading about a new topic. All who knew and loved her will miss her endless curiosity and zest for life.

A full Mass will be held at St. Sabina Catholic Church, 700 Trevis Ave., Belton, on Friday, May 23, 2025. Visitation will take place from 9:30 a.m. to 11 a.m., with the Mass beginning at 11. A celebration of life will follow graveside services at Mt. Olivet Cemetery. 

In lieu of flowers, please support two of Mary's passions- WBUR donate.wbur.org/secure/give and National Park Foundation  https://give.nationalparks.org.