Margaret Mary Curtin

9/28/1934 - 11/19/2025

New London - With profound sadness, the family of Margaret Mary Curtin announces her passing Nov. 19, 2025, surrounded by loved ones. A lifelong public servant, trailblazer, and devoted member of the New London community, Margaret lived her 90 years with unwavering faith, integrity, and a steadfast commitment to service.

Born September 28, 1934, Margaret graduated from The Williams Memorial Institute and continued her education at the University of Connecticut and Springfield College. Guided by a deep belief in civic responsibility and community stewardship, she quickly emerged as a respected voice in Connecticut public life.

Margaret's distinguished career included appointments by Governors Ella Grasso and William O'Neill, who entrusted her with the role of Undersecretary of Intergovernmental Relations at the Office of Policy and Management. Her leadership and collaborative approach helped strengthen state and local partnerships during pivotal decades in Connecticut government.

A proud New London native, Margaret made history through more than three decades of elected service. She was elected Mayor of the City of New London twice, in 1977 and again in 2006, and served as Deputy Mayor three times. She brought her characteristic fortitude, compassion, and fairness to each term, always placing the needs of residents first.

Margaret's civic engagement extended far beyond City Hall. She served on numerous boards and organizations, including the Southeast Area Transit (SEAT) Board, the March of Dimes, and the New London Board of Education, where she served from 2011 to 2017, including five years as President. She chaired the March of Dimes Telethon, was an active member of the New London Rotary Club, and proudly belonged to the New London Lodge of Elks #360.

A woman of deep and abiding faith, Margaret served as a Catholic Lay Minister for the Diocese of Norwich, offering comfort and guidance through her work in prison ministry and parish life. Her compassion, humility, and commitment to lifting those in need were hallmarks of her ministry.

A lifelong Democrat and barrier-breaking leader, Margaret served as President of the Young Democrats of New London and became the first woman President of the Connecticut Young Democrats. She was active on the Connecticut Democratic State Committee, the New London Democratic Town Committee, and was a proud member and International Representative of AFSCME, where she championed workers' rights with passion and conviction.

Margaret's life was defined by her generosity, her fierce advocacy for justice, and her belief in community as a source of strength. She inspired countless people through her mentorship, leadership, and the example she set as a woman of courage and resilience.

Margaret leaves behind her beloved nieces, Kate (Curtin) Rotella and Elizabeth (Curtin) Glover; her cherished grandnephews, Gianni Rotella and Calem Glover; and her treasured great-grandniece Mila Glover. She is also lovingly survived by her adopted nieces, Leeann Graham, Robin Maillett, and Catherine Foley; as well as her many Satti and Butler cousins; and her godson Michael McCourt and Kim Curtin. She was predeceased by her parents, William J. Curtin and Mary (Satti) Curtin; and her brother Charles Curtin.

Margaret will be remembered with deep love by her family, friends, colleagues, and the countless individuals whose lives she touched throughout New London, across Connecticut, and beyond.

Calling hours are from 5 to 8 p.m. Friday, Nov. 21, at the Thomas L. Neilan & Sons Funeral Home, 12 Ocean Avenue, New London. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 10 a.m. Saturday, at Saint Mary Star of the Sea Church, followed by Interment in St. Mary Cemetery.