Mary-Lou McManus, (Colacurcio), 89, of Florham Park, passed away peacefully at home on September 21, 2020, surrounded by her loving family.
Mary-Lou is predeceased by her beloved husband of 65 years, Ira J. McManus. They both grew up in Jersey City and were married in 1952. Soon after, in 1957, Mary-Lou and Ira built a house and put down roots in Florham Park where together they raised 10 wonderful children. Surrounded by love they opened their hearts and home to foster two young sisters who remain part of the family today.
Mary-Lou was a loving matriarch who instilled a deep Christ-centered faith in all of her children. As her children left home and moved out into the world, her home remained the family gathering place on Sundays and holidays. Over the years the family grew by leaps and bounds and Mary-Lou knew and loved each one of her grandchildren, great-grandchildren and great-great-grandchildren in a very personal way. They in turn loved visiting her and receiving her warm, loving kisses and hugs. Her greatest pleasure was spending time in the backyard enjoying nature and watching the children play. During the past few years she could be found lounging in her recliner, her loving aide Alla beside her, as she enjoyed drop-in visitors.
Mary-Lou will be missed by her family more than words can express. She leaves behind an extraordinary lineage that began with her and Ira so many years ago. Mary-Lou will be remembered for her quick wit and for the twinkle in her eye as she shared time and lively conversation with family members. She leaves behind the greatest gift a mother can give - a close-knit, loving family that will carry on her blessed legacy.
Mary-Lou was a devoted mother to Ira J. McManus Jr., his wife Leslie, Cindy Seneca, her husband Tom, Joseph McManus, his wife Mila, Christopher McManus, his wife Alice, Timothy McManus, Nancy Ferrara, Michael McManus, John McManus, his wife Mary, Tracy Heckel, her husband Joe, Cory Sinegra and her husband Rob. Loving foster mother to Margie Schwarz, her husband Ken, and Arlene Dare. Amazing grandmother, great-grandmother and great-great-grandmother to 98 grandchildren, great-grandchildren and great-great-grandchildren. Loving aunt to several nieces and nephews. Mary-Lou is predeceased by her parents Joseph and Louise Colacurcio and her sister Jean von der Lieth.
A memorial gathering will be at The McManus home, 39 Lincoln Avenue, Florham Park on Saturday, September 26th from 1-4PM.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Florham Park Memorial First Aid Squad, see donation box below for details.
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