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Mary Devaney Obituary

Devaney, Mary Ellen 72, late of Des Plaines, formerly of Chicago, passed away on January 22, 2011, beloved daughter of the late Frank J. and Susan, nee Campbell, Devaney; loving sister of Susan (the late John) Fitzgerald, the late Patricia Walsh, and the late Kathleen McManaman; a truly special aunt of Mark and the late Greg Walsh, Alison, and the late Jay, Fitzgerald, Brian, Kevin (Katie), Mark (Jennifer), and the late Thomas McManaman; as well as 12 young grandnieces and nephews; dear godmother to many special loved ones. Mary Ellen lived on the northwest side of Chicago for many years with her mother and her uncle Francis "Spike" Campbell, where the three endlessly entertained relatives and friends. A graduate of Notre Dame high school class of 1956, she spent virtually her whole career at Chicago City Hall in the Corporation Counsel's office and eventually becoming an administrative assistant to mayor Richard M. Daley before retiring in 1995. Visitation 3 to 9 p.m. Tuesday at Cumberland Chapels, 8300 W. Lawrence Ave., Norridge. Funeral Wednesday, 9 a.m. from Cumberland Chapels to St. Mary's Church in Des Plaines. Mass 10 a.m. Interment Mt. Carmel Cemetery, Hillside. Memorial donations to the Emergency Fund, 651 W. Washington Suite 504, Chicago, IL 60661. 708-456-8300 or www.cumberlandchapels.com

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by Chicago Sun-Times on Jan. 25, 2011.

Memories and Condolences
for Mary Devaney

Not sure what to say?





Alzina Miller

January 18, 2023

Our time together in the Mayor's Office and the good times we had is a lasting and pleasant memory. RIP Mare!

Alzina Miller

January 20, 2022

Rest In Peace Mary Ellen. The memories of our friendship live on in my heart.

Terri Zuziak

February 9, 2011

Although we both attended St. Mary Church for some time, I never really got to know Mary Ellen until last year. I always enjoyed our conversations after 5:00 Mass on Saturdays. Such a nice lady and may she rest in peace.

January 28, 2011

Dearest Daveney Family, I extend my condolences to all who cherished Mare. You were truly blessed to have this gentle, loving, quick-witted lady in your lives. I consider my self fortunate to have known and cared deeply for the "Devaneys" With heartfelt affection and prayers Averil Mach

January 27, 2011

Our thoughts and prayers are with you in your
time of grief. May your memories bring you
comfort.

The staff of Rainbow Hospice and Palliative Care

Alzina Miller

January 27, 2011

To the Dear Family of Mary Ellen, my deepest and heartfelt sympathy. We shared many moments together, both at work and socially. The memories and thoughts of those times will live on in my heart.. May God be with you, the Family, and give you comfort. Alzina (Barnes) Miller (formerly of the Mayor's Office of Chicago) now of Las Vegas, NV.

Mary Esther Leidinger

January 26, 2011

Mary Ellen cared. She showed love and laughter to all. She's the Bible's concept of a "good woman". A page has been turned in my book, but I am fortunate to be able to reread its memories.

Angelo & Grace Iovinelli

January 26, 2011

To the Devaney, McManaman and Campbell Families our deepest condolences at this time. We will always remember Mary Ellen as a warm, generous and caring person. She was the best. Love and prayers.

Gerry Ryan

January 26, 2011

When I think of Mary Ellen, I smile. She always had a smile on her face and was willing to share it with all she me. We were blessed to have her smile in our lives.

Elaine Toscano

January 26, 2011

To everyone in Mary Ellen's Family, my deepest sympathy for your loss. I always enjoyed the time I spent with Mary Ellen and Greg. She was always so kind, not only to me, but to everyone she came into contact with. She will be deeply missed. I will continue to keep Mary Ellen and her family in my thoughts and prayers

Sam & Eileen Arcuri

January 25, 2011

Dear Devaney Family
Sam & I send our deepest sympathy. Mary
Ellen was a good friend for many years, even though we moved from the Chicago area, we kept in touch. Know how much she will be missed. Will keep
her in our prayers. May God hold her in the palm of His hand.

January 25, 2011

Our deepest sympathy to the Devaney and Campbell Familes. we were so sorry to hear of Mary Ellen's death. She will be missed as a sister, aunt ,cousin and friend.
The Laird Family(next door neigbors) from Congess Street.

The Staff of Cumberland Chapels

January 25, 2011

Offering our deepest condolences during this difficult time.

Pat Quetsch

January 24, 2011

A wonderful person and I will remember many of our childhood days when the cousins got together. Her smile and wit will be missed.
God Bless and watch over us all....
Pat Quetsch

January 24, 2011

Dear Sue and extended Family,

Joe and I send our sincere sympathy to all of you for Mary Ellen. A devoted daughter, sister, niece, aunt, great aunt, cousin and above all friend. Her loyality, kindness, generosity and friendship were qualities that identified Mary Ellen. She lived a life of caring and giving. She fought the good fight and now may she rest in peace with those who have gone before her. Till we meet again. Love Kathy

Kathy and Joe Chausse and Family

Sandra McNeela

January 24, 2011

With deepest sympathy to all the family. My prayers and thoughts are with you.
Sandra McNeela

January 24, 2011

It's sad to see this. When I worked for the City in the 70's, Mary Ellen was the go-to girl and had the best chuckle in the Law Department.

Edith Makra

January 24, 2011

Mary Ellen was an elegant professional with a kind heart. She was an important mentor to me as I learned my way around City Hall. She held an important role as Mayor Daley's secretary, yet made all of us young staffers feel valued. She was the one to go to for thoughtful advice. Her kindness and patience humanized our office. It was a privilege to know her.

Edith Makra
former Assistant to Mayor Daley

Kevin McManaman

January 24, 2011

Aunt Mare - Very sorry to see you go. You gave a great fight and I am just very thankful and lucky to have had such a wonderful Aunt. You truly were a special person to so many and I know you are finally at peace. Will miss you greatly
love
Kevin McManaman

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