Mary Cassidy Burns
Mary Cassidy Burns, of Naples, FL, passed away peacefully on May 23, 2022. Born January 21, 1927 in Chicago, IL, Mary was the eldest daughter of Margaret Fitzgerald and John Joseph Cassidy. She was predeceased by her husband of 40 years, John Valentine Burns who died in 1991 and their infant son, David Anthony in 1958; her older brother, Jack (Marilyn), her sisters, Margaret “Peggy” Burns (the late Bart), and Barbara De Smet (Harry).
Mary married John in Chicago, 1950. They moved with their growing family to Cincinnati, OH, Winnetka, IL and later to Greenwich, CT where they settled with their 5 children: Valerie Winebrenner (the late John), Jack Burns (the late Katrena), Bridget Bucknall (Stafford), Richard Burns (Cricket) and KK Lowther (George).
Mary attended St Scholastica Academy and Marquette University. She was a prolific and award winning artist and returned to college in her 40’s to continue her studies in art.
A woman of faith, fortitude and courage, in the late 60’s Mary was the first former patient volunteer at Memorial Hospital in NYC (MSK). Subsequently she volunteered at Greenwich and Naples Hospital(s).
In 1980 upon retirement, Mary and John, who loved to travel, took an extensive trip “around the world” before settling in Naples, Florida.
Mary loved golf, playing at Hole-in-the-Wall into her 90’s. She celebrated a hole in one and won the first Ladies Gold Medal Championship.
A longtime member of the Port Royal Club, a favorite spot where she gathered with family and enjoyed bridge with her friends.
Mary was known as Nana to her grandchildren: Mary Beth Winningham, John Burns, Christen Bucknall Ryan (Matthew), Ford and Jonathan Bucknall, Manzi and India Burns, Cassidy, Wellsley and George Lowther. “Nana called it like she saw it but always elicited a smile with her delivery.”
Mary was a strong woman, smart, kind and had a great sense of humor. While talented and accomplished, she was humble and shied away from the spotlight. And never discussed her age!! She will be dearly missed.
A celebration of life for Mary Burns will be held at 2:00pm on Thursday, July 21 at St. Michael’s Church, 469 North Street, Greenwich, CT.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Avow Hospice, 1095 Whippoorwill Lane, Naples, FL 34105.