Marguerite M. O'Grady
November 18, 1924 - April 19, 2026
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Obituary for Marguerite M. O'Grady
Marguerite Mary O’Grady passed away peacefully on April 19, 2026, at the age of 101. Born in Dorchester, she lived most of her life in Milton, Massachusetts. She was the daughter of the late Winifred and Denis O’Grady and is survived by her cousins Eileen Moran and Mary Moran of Boston and O’Grady family cousins in Tobercurry, Sligo, Ireland, as well as her long-time friends Jean Lifford and Pat Mullin. She frequently attended St. Agatha’s Church in Milton, loved to visit the Milton Public Library, and often enjoyed brunch with friends at Newcomb Farms. She also deeply appreciated the kindness of her neighbors, especially Fred and Linda Kibble and Hank, Linda and Adam Stankiewicz. Marguerite also deeply appreciated the many, many kindnesses of the late Gwendolyn McMahon, Sister of Charity, Nazareth Kentucky.
At 95 she moved to Atria Marina Place in Quincy and received the devoted care of the staff of Catherine Larkin’s Celtic Home Care. She especially appreciated the wonderful support of Fiona Bolger, Bridie Reaney, Elaine Boardman, Irene Sadlik and Monica Hernon. Marguerite also deeply appreciated the many, many kindnesses of the late Gwendolyn McMahon, Sister of Charity, Nazareth Kentucky.
Marguerite attended St. Peter’s School in Dorchester and St. Gregory’s High School in Milton and received her undergraduate degree from Emmanuel College and a graduate degree in French from Boston University. For several years she worked for Rev. Robert Drinan, S.J., Dean of the Boston College Law School.
The majority of her professional life was devoted to overseeing the World Language Department in the Dedham Public Schools where she left a remarkable legacy as a much admired leader and teacher. A consummate educator, she introduced a number of innovative programs to the department. She focused the teaching of foreign language on the spoken as well as the written language and arranged to have Dedham students participate in several exchange programs with countries including Japan, France, and Finland.
Marguerite’s colleagues and students, as well as all who knew her, would probably agree that the term “equanimity” perfectly described her. Much appreciated as an incredibly gracious and kind individual, she constantly found ways to encourage both teachers and students to believe in themselves and in the possibilities before them. She was always smiling and upbeat, always calm and tolerant, always intrigued by the people and the world around her. Self-effacing, she eagerly listened to the accomplishments of others as well as the challenges they faced. Deeply dedicated to her profession, she found ways to bring out the best in the members of her department as well as the thousands of students who were fortunate to be in her classes.
Marguerite was inspiring to all who had the privilege of knowing her. She will be greatly missed.
A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at Saint Agatha Church, 432 Adams Street, Milton, Wednesday May 6, 2026, at 10:30 AM. Family and friends invited. Visiting hour will be held at Dolan Funeral Home, 460 Granite Avenue, EAST MILTON SQUARE, prior to the mass from 9-10 am. Interment will be private.
Services
Visitation
09:00 AM - 10:00 AM
Mass of Christian Burial
10:30 AM - 11:30 AM
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Condolences
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May 20, 2026
Marguerite was my first boss as a new teacher at Dedham High School. She was simply the best. I loved her laugh; I can still hear it. Always supportive and always upbeat, she was a wonderful mentor. She accompanied me and my students on a trip to Spain. We had a fantastic time. She was a gem! Everyone loved Marguerite. RIP Claire Kerrigan Dix
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May 13, 2026
The Class of 1976 sends its condolences and will remember Miss O'Grady as a dedicated teacher committed to bringing out the best in all her students.
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May 04, 2026
Wonderful memories of Marguerite, personally and professionally-meetings, travel, theatre. She was a lifetime learner and an enthusiastic contributor to everything she participated in. A scheduling conflict prevents me from attending services, but will she will be in my thoughts. Maryanne Placentino
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May 02, 2026
Found memories of a wonderful French teacher. Her impact lives on through her students. Rest in peace. Gail (Parrott) Jacobs, DHS '93
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April 30, 2026
Please accept the condolences of the Emmanuel College community upon Marguerite's passing. We shall add her name to the intentions at our next Memorial Mass. In their day the Class of '46 was an active one. Raised in the Depression, attending the College during the war, they were movers and shakers. True to the spirit of the Sister of Notre Dame and their College, many like Marguerite devoted their lives to educating young minds. May Marguerite, and all our dear departed Alumnae , friends and families, rest in peace and rise in glory.
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April 29, 2026
Madame O'Grady was a beloved teacher, a warm and gracious woman, with a wonderful smile for all.
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April 29, 2026
The best French teacher at Dedham High! Just loved Ms O'Grady!💖💖
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