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Mary Ann MacLean Obituary
Born in 1936 in Pierre, South Dakota, Mary Ann MacLean(then Mary Ann Duffy) grew up in hard times. Yet never did she let her family's personal loss dim her gracious spirit. Eventually, Mary Ann and her family moved to Tucson where she studied education at the University of Arizona. She had found her calling—teaching—and would later find her husband. In the '60s, she married Daniel P. MacLean, a Navy veteran who shared Mary Ann's devotion to the Catholic Church. Together they made a home in Tempe and raised five children—Marty, Matt, Margo, Moira, and Michael.
Mary Ann was kind, honest, and incredibly patient. It was these traits that made her an exceptional, nationally-recognized teacher. She taught in one of the poorest neighborhoods in the Valley before her faith led her to Our Lady of Mt. Carmel School where she worked for 37 years. Mary Ann's innate ability to make children feel special led many former students to dub her their "favorite teacher." She especially appreciated her fellow teachers and Tempe neighbors whose kindness and compassion were great comforts to her in her later years.
After retirement, Mary Ann continued to serve her community, volunteering with the East Valley Assistance League and Maggie's Place shelter to help the less fortunate. Before age caught up with her, she got the chance to travel all over Europe and Ireland.
Gratefully, Mary Ann was surrounded by family in her final days and hours. While she will be terribly missed, we can all find solace knowing that Mary Ann is now embraced in Heaven by those loved ones who passed before her.
Funeral Services will be held at 9:30AM Saturday February 20th, 2021 at Our Lady of Mount Carmel Church in Tempe, AZ followed by an outdoor reception for family and close friends.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Mary Ann MacLean
6 Entries
The Fairbanks
February 2, 2022
Holding Maryann in prayer.
Angela Phillips
February 20, 2021
Mary Ann was another Mom to me and to so many. With having so many children in the MacLean family, there was an attraction for friends to stop by. Whenever I went there, I never had to knock. Just went inside and was always welcomed with a hug and a smile and an offer for a beverage. Usually there was something good cooking in the kitchen and we all remember Mary Ann‘s chimichangas and refried beans. The MacLean household was always warm and welcoming and Mary Ann was such a kind and loving person. She always called me, Angie, which was very sweet and endearing. She will be remembered forever as a loving soul and will be missed. May she Rest In Peace.
Love,
Angela
Lucinda Kelly
February 19, 2021
Mary Ann was a friend, fun companion, advisor, faith sharer, fellow teacher and learner. I do miss her and look forward to being with her in our future.
Patt Leonard
February 17, 2021
Our Lady of Mount Carmel Catholic School
2117 S. Rural Rd.
Tempe, AZ 85282-1409
Hospice of the Valley
1510 E. Flower St.
Phoenix, AZ 85014
Therese
February 16, 2021
Mary Ann was the Salt of the Earth and will be missed here, and can’t wait to see her in heaven with Marty at the big banquet. Rest In Peace. I’m praying for you today and will offer a sacrifice for you specifically. For your eternal rest. Amen.
Margo MacLean Rockas
February 16, 2021
In lieu of flowers please contact Our Lady of Mt Carmel School to donate to a scholarship fund in her name or to Hospice of the Valley-thank you.
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