Mary Jane (MJ) McDonnell, 78, of South Boston, passed away with her loving family by her side on February 27, 2021. Born in Cambridge, MA, she was the daughter of the late Anna (Geary) and Dennis McDonnell. She was predeceased by her brother William (Billy) McDonnell and his wife Katherine (Kathi) McDonnell. She is survived by her nieces Julie McDonnell, Kathleen Daggett, Maureen McDonnell-Mini all of Rockland, MA and Trisha LaCroix of Alton, NH, her grandnieces and nephews Timothy, Lindsey, Kelsey, Hannah, Kasey, Katherine and Nicholas. She is also survived by the McGonagle, Geary and McDonnell cousins and their extended families and her longtime friend Josephine Ann Stack.

Mary Jane graduated from Sacred Heart High School as the top-ranking senior, earning a full scholarship to the Newton College of the Sacred Heart. She spent almost her entire working career as an analyst with the Massachusetts Department of Education, retiring in 2008. Mary Jane was most happy and loved spending time with her extended family and always arrived at family functions bearing gifts. She was a champion of the underdog and supported many charities. MJ enjoyed going to the theatre, was an avid reader, enjoyed doing crossword puzzles and watching Jeopardy. Mary Jane (MJ) will be deeply missed by all that knew her.

A celebration of Mary's life will be held at a later date. Donations can be made in MJ's name to a charity of your choice.