Mary E. (Murphy) Connors, 96, of Reading, formerly of Everett, passed away peacefully on Thursday, April 16, 2026, at Katzman Family Center for Living. Ever the social butterfly, her beautiful wings are now gracing heaven.

Born on December 8, 1929, in Boston, one of five children of the late Albert T. and Elizabeth (Green) Murphy. She grew up in Somerville and graduated from Somerville High School, where she developed a love of horses and dancing

On October 12, 1952, she married Alfred R. Connors and settled in Everett to raise their family. She dearly loved her family and truly enjoyed all that went with being a mother, grandmother, and great grandmother.

Mary dedicated a significant part of her career to serving others, first as a waitress which appealed to her social nature and later in the Medical Records department at Whidden Memorial Hospital.

Her optimistic spirit and adventurous heart were felt by everyone she encountered. Mary had a knack for making life feel like an adventure, and her fondness for occasional trips to the casino brought much joy and laughter. Mary’s legacy of kindness, love, and zest for life will forever remain in the hearts of those who knew and loved her. To paraphrase the popular song, “she was once, twice, three times a lady.”

Mary was the beloved wife of the late Alfred R. Connors with whom she shared 26 years of marriage. Devoted mother of Patricia A. Duzey of Richmond, VA, Mary F. Connors of San Francisco, CA, Kenneth J. Connors and his wife Nancy of Gardner, Jean M. Connors of Malden, Kevin A. Connors and his wife Marybeth Savicki of Wakefield, and the late Douglas R. Connors and his surviving wife Jill. Loving sister of Charles Murphy, the late Joseph Murphy, the late Albert Murphy, Jr. and his surviving wife Terese, and the late Frances Murphy. Cherished grandmother of Sean, Kathleen, Daniel, Brian, Shevaun, Patrick, Steven, Adam, Samantha, Mackenzie, Hannah, Tynan, Brynn, Kian, Quintin, and step grandmother of Frances, Phoebe, and Felicity. Also survived by her five great grandchildren.

Relatives and friends are invited to gather in Mary’s memory during Visiting Hours at the Robinson Funeral Home, 809 Main St., Melrose on Tuesday, April 21 from 10am, before leaving in procession to St. Mary’s Church, Herbert St., for her Funeral Mass celebrated at 12pm.

In lieu of flowers, donations in Mary’s name may be made to The PBS Foundation, 1225 South Clark St., Arlington, VA 22202.