Mary McLaughlin of Wayne, New Jersey, Passes Away at Age 94

Mary McLaughlin cheered enthusiastically from the sidelines of St. Mary’s High School, an early reflection of the energetic community engagement that would characterize her long life.

A longtime Wayne resident whose career included working as an Administrative Assistant and whose personal life was anchored by community ties, McLaughlin passed away peacefully on November 1, 2026, at the age of 94.

Early Roots in Paterson and Totowa

Born Mary DelMonaco in Paterson, New Jersey, she grew up as the middle of three children to parents Frank and Kathryn DelMonaco. Her early years unfolded across Paterson and Totowa, culminating in her graduation from St. Mary’s High School with the Class of 1949.

Industrial Work to County Courtrooms

Following her graduation, McLaughlin entered the workforce at Curtiss-Wright in Wood-Ridge, New Jersey, operating as a keypunch operator during a critical era of American industrial manufacturing.

Years later, she transitioned to public service with the Bergen County Superior Court in Hackensack. Through steadfast dedication, she advanced from an entry-level clerk to an Administrative Assistant, maintaining her post until her retirement in 2002.

Building Neighborhood Ties in Wayne

Family life remained her ultimate focus. After welcoming her son, Michael, into the world while living in Garfield, she resided in Elmwood Park before finally settling in Wayne in 2006.

In Wayne, she built a rich network of neighborhood and civic connections, joining the Golden Age Club and taking an active role in various committees at Sisco Village. Friends and neighbors often found her organizing events designed to bring residents together, a testament to her generous spirit.

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Faith, Yankees Fandom, and Daily Rhythms

Beyond her civic life, McLaughlin maintained a devoted Catholic faith as a longtime parishioner of Holy Cross Roman Catholic Church in Wayne. She also held a fierce loyalty to the New York Yankees, closely tracking the team and cheering for stars like Aaron Judge, while famously never missing an episode of Walker, Texas Ranger.

Surviving Family and Memorial Tributes

McLaughlin is survived by her son, Michael Stillman of Wayne, along with numerous nieces, nephews, and great-nieces and nephews. She was predeceased by her siblings, Frank DelMonaco, Jr., and Dorothy Musilli. Funeral arrangements and memorial details are being handled through Vander May Wayne Funeral Home.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made in Mary’s name to Holy Cross Roman Catholic Church in Wayne.