Mary Elizabeth (Donovan) Crowther, 92, passed away peacefully at home surrounded by her family on September 27, 2025.

Born on April 24, 1933, Mary was the daughter of Edward J. and Mary E. (McCormick) Donovan. A lifelong resident of Melrose, she graduated from St. Mary's High School in 1951. Mary began her career with the New England Telephone Company before becoming a medical secretary for Dr. Jako in Melrose, where she worked for more than 20 years. She later retired to enjoy time with her many friends and the growing family that became her greatest joy.

She was the beloved wife of the late Andrew W. Crowther, with whom she shared a long and devoted marriage. Together they raised four children who were the pride of her life: Andrew W. Crowther Jr. (Jody) of Lynnfield, Maureen E. Rice (Steven) of Melrose, Robert E. Crowther (Dottie) of Boxford, and James F. Crowther of Melrose.

Mary's legacy shines through her 12 grandchildren—Julie (Crowther) Spinale, Brian, Andrew, and Joseph Crowther, Michael, and Kevin Rice, Robert, Ryan, Daniel, Brianne, and Brendan Crowther, and James Crowther—and her 7 great-grandchildren, Samuel and Josie Spinale, Ava and Colin Crowther, Diana and William Guzman, and Ariella Crowther.

She is also survived by her sister Sheila Enwright and many nieces and nephews. She was predeceased by her siblings Patricia Rossino, Edward Donovan, and Jane Bushee.

Mary will be remembered for her quick wit, warm smile, and unwavering devotion to her family. Her faith, kindness, and joyful outlook on life touched all who knew her. She leaves behind a legacy of love that will continue to live on in the stories, traditions, and memories shared by her family and friends.

Visiting hours will be held on Friday, October 3, 2025, from 9:30 AM–11:30 AM at the Gately Funeral Home, 79 W. Foster St., Melrose, followed by a Mass of Christian Burial at St. Mary's Church, 4 Herbert St., Melrose at 12:00 PM. Interment will follow at Wyoming Cemetery, Melrose. Relatives and friends are respectfully invited to attend.

The family would like to extend their heartfelt gratitude to the staff at the Dana-Farber Cancer Institute in Boston for the kindness, patience, and support they provided to Mary. Memorial contributions may be made to Dana Farber or to St Mary's Church, Melrose. https://donate.cancer.org / donations for St. Mary's may be mailed to the Rectory located at 46 Myrtle Street, Melrose, Ma 02176.