Marsha Friel McDonough Born April 14, 1943, in Charlestown, MA Died April 18, 2026, in Winchester, MA

Marsha Friel McDonough, 83, passed away on April 18, 2026. She was born in Charlestown, Massachusetts, during World War II, to, Margaret (Ewell) Friel, a devoted homemaker who also worked at Schrafft's Candy, and her husband Joseph Friel, a Boston Police officer and later detective. Marsha was a proud graduate of Mount Saint Joseph Academy and went on to earn her degree in English Education from Boston State University. She began her career teaching at King Philip Regional High School in Wrentham and later at Northeast Metropolitan High School in Wakefield. After earning her Master's degree from Fitchburg State College, Marsha transitioned into educational leadership, where she built a distinguished career in vocational education. She held leadership roles including Principal and Assistant Superintendent, ultimately serving as Superintendent of Greater Lawrence Vocational School.

Never one to stand still, Marsha extended her impact by serving on the Board of Lawrence Savings Bank and working with Endicott College. She later joined the U.S. State Department, supporting American schools abroad. Even in retirement, her passion for education and travel continued, bringing her to Dubai many times as an educational consultant.

In 1969, Marsha married Bob McDonough, and together they built a life filled with love, laughter, and adventure. Their happiest year came in 1972 with the birth of their son, Devin. They made their home in Wakefield, Massachusetts, where summers were spent "down the Cape" with family and friends, eventually purchasing a home in Falmouth. That home became a cherished gathering place, where Marsha—an exceptional hostess—welcomed loved ones with warmth, energy, and carefully planned adventures.

Later in life, Marsha made Falmouth her primary residence, while winters were often spent in Naples, Florida, where she formed close friendships and became an active member of the community.

A devoted Boston Red Sox fan, Marsha spent many memorable evenings at Fenway Park, including the unforgettable 1986 World Series. In true Marsha fashion, she famously talked her way into the game without a ticket. She was thrilled to witness the end of the "Curse of the Bambino" in 2004 in St. Louis, sharing that special moment with her brother-in-law and dear friend, Billy.

Marsha's greatest joy came from her family. She became a grandmother in 2005 with the birth of Lily Manning, and again in 2009 with Maggie Frances. Her granddaughters were the lights of her life. From babysitting nights in Malden to sleepovers on the Cape, and family trips to Disney, Hawaii, and Paris, Marsha created lasting memories and passed along her deep love of travel and curiosity about the world.

Marsha also found love and companionship with Russ Bubas, with whom she shared many adventures. Her family is grateful for the care, love, and support he provided in her later years.

Marsha is survived by her son Devin and his wife Tara McDonough; her beloved granddaughters Lily and Maggie McDonough; her siblings Peggy (and Bill) Sittig, Jack (and Susan) Friel, Kevin (and Patricia) Friel; and many nieces, nephews, and cousins and friends. She was predeceased by her brothers Larry Friel (and his wife Robin) and Jay Friel (and his wife Mary).

Marsha will be remembered for her intelligence, determination, warmth, and boundless love for her family and friends. Her legacy lives on in the countless lives she touched as an educator, leader, mother, grandmother, and friend.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated in St. Theresa of Avila Church, West Roxbury on Monday April 27 at 10:00 am. Relatives and friends are invited to attend. Visiting hours in the Robert J. Lawler & Crosby Funeral Home, 1803 Centre St. West Roxbury on Sunday April 26, from 2:00 to 5:00 pm. Interment private.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation in Marsha's name to the Act Now Foundation, which supports dementia/Alzheimer's patients and their caregivers.

http://actnowfoundation.org

To live stream Marsha's Funeral Mass, please visit www.sttheresaparishboston.com

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