Mary Virginia Claire O'Dowd

Mary Shikany O’Dowd, 74, passed away in her home on August 18, 2025.

Born on April 18, 1951, in Minneapolis, MN, to the late James and Virginia Shikany. Mary was a beloved wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and sister. In 1955, the Shikany family moved to Phoenix, AZ, where she attended St. Gregory Elementary School and later Bourgade High School. Mary became a paralegal in 1975, dedicating her career to tirelessly advocating for those in need.

Mary married her high school sweetheart, John O’Dowd, in 1970. Together, they raised five children: Shaunna O’Dowd (Richard Encinas), Sarah O’Dowd Garrigan (John Garrigan), John O’Dowd (Jennifer Woodcock O’Dowd), Mary O’Dowd Bonvicino (Jeffrey Bonvicino), and Ellen O’Dowd Tunney (Danny Tunney).

One of Mary’s greatest joys in life was her beloved grandchildren: Kristin Brown (Austin McCain), Robert Brown (Madi Bourland), Michael Garrigan (Sydney Clooney), Jacob Brown (Shelbye Hudson), James Garrigan (Haeleigh Paulino), John O’Dowd, James Bonvicino, Ellia Bonvicino, William O’Dowd, Mila Bonvicino, Julia O’Dowd, Jack Tunney, Eva Tunney, Elizabeth Tunney, and Elisha Tunney. Her “epic” slumber parties, candy salads, and breakfast for dinner will forever be treasured memories. But her love extended even further when she became “Grandma the Great” to Silas McCain, Roam Brown, Sawyer McCain, and Finnegan Patrick Garrigan.

Mary was preceded in death by her parents and brother, James Shikany. She is survived by her sister, Cathy Shikany, and brother Peter Shikany.

In addition to spending time with her family, Mary devoted her time to volunteering for local charities and attending Brophy Chapel mass with her lifelong friends. A beloved member of St. Gregory’s community, she also found joy in gardening, book club, and going to movies, where she created lasting memories with those she loved. Her warmth, generosity, and love touched all who knew her. We will miss her deeply, and she will forever remain in our hearts.

A visitation will be held on Friday, August 29th, at 5:00-7:00 pm, with the Rosary beginning at 6:30 pm. The celebration of life will be on Saturday, August 30th, at 11:00 am. Both services will be at Whitney & Murphy Funeral Home, 4800 East Indian School Road. Reception to follow at Aunt Chilada’s Restaurant, 7330 North Dreamy Draw Drive. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly asks for donations to be made in honor of Mary to The Crossroads https://thecrossroadsinc.org/giving/