Mary Louise (Mcgillicuddy) Curtis

Mary Curtis Obituary
Mary Louise (McGillicuddy) Curtis, known affectionately to all as Mary Lou was a beacon of laughter and love that brightened the lives of those around her. Born on July 7, 1937, in the quaint town of Willimantic, Connecticut, Mary's journey through life was one filled with joy, a dash of mischief, and an abundance of warmth. Her vibrant spirit took its final bow on December 27, 2024, in Windham, Connecticut, leaving behind a legacy of cherished memories and a family that adored her.



Mary was the matriarch of a close-knit brood that includes her three children: Harvey Curtis Jr., the spitting image of his mother's wit, of Willimantic; Darlene Ethridge and her husband, Bill, the couple that could rival any comedy duo, of Columbia; and Bryan Curtis with his wife, Carol, of Coventry, who together kept the laughter echoing through the halls. Her legacy continues through her grandchildren: Kevin Curtis, Mandy Tudisca, Joshua Ethridge, Jess Curtis, and Jenna Ethridge, and her great-grandchildren, Harleeigh Curtis and Adaleigh Carver, who will no doubt inherit her knack for merrymaking. Mary is also survived by her brother, Michael McGillicuddy, and his wife, Teresa, of Canterbury, who together formed the comedy troupe of the family. She takes her final curtain call after her sister, Betty Davoll, and her husband, Wilbert, of Windham, who surely welcomed her with open arms and a well-timed punchline. Honorable mention to Mary's former husband and father to their three children Harvey Curtis Sr. Although they parted company, they remained close friends until his passing in 2004. Mary is also predeceased by her long time boyfriend, Bob Hartley whom she lived with for many years.

She enjoyed listening to Bob play country music with his band at many taverns and restaurants all over the state. A proud graduate of Windham High School, Mary took her role as Certified Food Service Supervisor for the Windham Public Schools very seriously, but not too seriously that she wouldn't slip a whoopee cushion on the cafeteria seats now and then. Her colleagues and students will remember her as the queen of the lunchroom, serving up both nourishing meals and a hearty dose of humor. Mary's interests were as eclectic as her sense of humor. She loved her family fiercely, adored her cats, and was a wizard in the kitchen, renowned for her American chop suey, a dish that brought the family running to the table faster than a stand-up comedian to an open mic night. Her passion for duckpin bowling was matched only by her love of family picnics, where she was the undisputed cooler queen, always ready to share a laugh and a chilled adult beverage with anyone in need of refreshment. Christmas was Mary's time to shine, transforming her home into a winter wonderland that would make Santa Claus himself green with envy. Her Christmas village was more than just a collection of ceramic houses; it was a testament to her beautiful imagination, where every twinkling light and blanket of snow was placed with love and a touch of comic flair. Describing Mary is simple: she was the life of the party. Funny, friendly, and thoughtful, she had a knack for turning the mundane into the extraordinary with just her presence. Her laughter was infectious, her friendship a gift, and her thoughtfulness knew no bounds. As we bid farewell to Mary, we do so with a smile on our faces, knowing that heaven has gained one hilarious angel. Her stories will be told and retold, each time with a chuckle and a warmth in our hearts. Mary Louise Curtis, you were one of a kind, and you will be missed more than words can express. Here's to a life wonderfully lived and a woman who was truly the master of ceremonies to the end. Curtain down, applause up, and, Mary, take your well-deserved bow.


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