Mary E. (Clarke) Kelleher, 70, of Mattapoisett died Friday, August 29, 2025 at home after a period of declining health.
She was born and raised in New Bedford and graduated from Holy Name Grammar School and Holy Family High School. Mary graduated from Southeastern Massachusetts University (UMass Dartmouth) and received her Doctor of Laws degree from Boston College Law School. Known for her strong work ethic and commitment to justice, she practiced law for more than 40 years. She served as fishing industry liaison to the U.S. Small Business Administration and concentrated in business law, administrative law and civil litigation. She was a partner of the law firm Koldys and Kelleher, P.C.
Mary was a gifted athlete from early on. In grade school, neighborhood boys would knock on the door, looking for Mary to join them in a game of football or basketball. Later, she excelled at tennis, winning numerous citywide tournaments. Eventually, she would meet her husband Steve on a tennis court and they often golfed together.
A talented musician, Mary enjoyed playing guitar for friends and church services. She often performed blues and folk music at coffee houses with her sister Fran. Fishing and relaxing at the cottage in Brewster were other favorite pastimes.
Mary had a true gift for bringing people together. She loved cooking and hosted countless gatherings, big and small. Her kitchen was always filled with delicious aromas, laughter, and the comforting sense of home. She made everyone feel welcome, and her meals were made with love.
In recent years she was devoted to her family and was very proud of her daughters Katherine and Laura. She cherished every moment spent with family. Her grandchildren, Elias and Ayla held a special place in her heart. Her face would light up with every tale of their adventures—whether it was a new sport they tried, a funny moment at school, or a skill they proudly mastered. Her love for them was deep and unwavering, and they brought her endless joy and pride.
Mary is survived by her husband of 36 years, Stephen Kelleher, daughter Katherine Gonzalez and her husband Jonathan, daughter Laura Kelleher, and grandchildren Elias and Ayla. She is also survived by her sister Frances Guilbert, brother John Clarke, and her three nephews, Matthew, Christopher, and John. She was pre-deceased by her parents John and Rita (Swistak) Clarke of New Bedford, and her sister Christina Clarke.
Her Funeral Mass will be held Saturday, September 6, 2025 at 1 PM at St. Anthony’s Church, 26 Hammond St., Mattapoisett, with everyone meeting directly at Church. Burial will be private. Visiting hours will be held Friday, September 5th from 4-8 PM in the Saunders-Dwyer Mattapoisett Home for Funerals, 50 County Rd., Mattapoisett. For directions and guestbook, visit www.saundersdwyer.com.
Flowers and/or memorial contributions to Tunnel to Towers Foundation or the Mattapoisett YMCA are equally welcome.
