Mary Ellen (Harkins) Grady

Mary Ellen (nee Harkins) Grady passed away peacefully surrounded by her family on November 6, 2024, at the age of 87.  Beloved wife of the late Francis “Gus” Grady.  Daughter of the late James and Helen (nee Kane) Harkins.  Loving mother of Mary Denise Grady and Francis (Ann) Grady. Devoted and adored grandmother (“Mom-mom”) of Molly, Erin, Franny, Maura, and Tara.  Sister of late Claire Marra (nee Harkins) and Jim Harkins. Mary Ellen's life was one marked by devotion to her family, her faith, and her many contributions to the community.  

Mary Ellen was born and raised in Yeadon, PA.  She attended St. Louis School and Notre Dame High School and later graduated from University of Pennsylvania Dental School as a dental hygienist.  Mary Ellen married Gus in 1959, and they began their life together settling in Springfield where she remained until 2022. Her family enjoyed family dinners, birthday parties, holidays, and unforgettable summers at the Springfield Swim Club and the Jersey Shore.  Mary Ellen and Gus went to every sporting event, often traveling hours just to attend. Mary Ellen also dedicated her time to St. Francis of Assisi Parish, Cardinal O’Hara High School, the Junior Women's Club, and the Springfield Swim Club. She was heavily involved in the Springfield Lioness Organization where she was elected President in 2004-2005 and the recipient of the Good Samaritan Award in 2015.  

Upon retirement from running the family business, Harkins Exterminators, Mary Ellen became an avid traveler.  She visited many places including Australia, Italy, Ireland, Russia, Canada, Hawaii, and Alaska.  Her greatest joy, however, were her 5 grandchildren.  They were the light of her life.  Mary Ellen took great pride in her role as mother and grandmother.  One of her greatest memories was a surprise trip to Disney World for the whole family.  Mom-mom was always cheering her grandchildren on the field, at the school plays, or treating them to day trips to Linvilla Orchards and Tyler Arboretum.  Her final years were spent with her friends at Riddle Village.  She enjoyed playing bridge, attending concerts, and dining with friends.   Mary Ellen was known for her loving and thoughtful nature. She was a pillar of strength and support for her family and within her community. She was always ready to lend a hand or offer a kind word. Her faith-filled life was an inspiration to many.  

Mary Ellen is also survived by many loving nieces and nephew: Denise McNeill (nee Marra), Judy Martelli (nee Marra), Richard Marra, Mary Ellen David (nee Marra), Claire Ryan (nee Marra), and Sheila Grubb (nee Marra) who loved her unconditionally until her final days.

Relatives and friends are invited to a Visitation 8:30 - 10:15 A.M. Monday, Nov. 11th at St. Dorothy's Church, 4910 Township Line Road (corner of Township Line Rd. & Burmont Rd), Drexel Hill, PA  19026 followed by her Funeral Mass at 10:30 A.M.    Interment Saints Peter & Paul Cemetery, Springfield, PA  19064.  

The Funeral Mass will be Livestreamed as well.  Please click on the following link on Monday, November 11th at 10:15 A.M. https://www.youtube.com/@saintdorothyparish3153/streams

In lieu of flowers, family request contributions be made to Catholic Social Services - Archdiocese of Philadelphia https://www.archphila.org/