Mary Catherine Daniels, of Columbia, passed away on May 13, 2026, at the age of 78. She was born June 23, 1947, in Glencolmcille, County Donegal, Ireland, the daughter of the late James and Mary (Cunningham) Boyle. At 17 years of age, Mary immigrated to the United States and worked for a family on Fishers Island, where she met the love of her life, William Daniels. They were married June 17, 1972, and shared a life of love and adventure. They lived in Groton and Gales Ferry before settling in Higganum, where they raised their family. In later years, they retired to Columbia to be closer to their grandchildren. Mary was proud of her Irish heritage and enjoyed watching her grandchildren play Gaelic sports at the Irish American Home Society in Glastonbury.  Mary retired after working as a certified nurse aide and as a food service worker in the local public schools. In her free time, she enjoyed making pottery, knitting, and doing puzzles, and she loved collecting ceramic dolls. She loved going to the casinos, talking on the phone for hours with her sisters and watching her grandchildren participate in their hobbies. Above all, Mary will be remembered as a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, and friend. She is survived by her husband of nearly 54 years, William; her children, Charles Daniels of Amston, CT, and James Daniels of Virginia; her grandchildren, Isabella, James Jr., Bryce, Mason, Piper, and Bodyn; two brothers; four sisters; and many extended family members and friends.  Funeral services will be held at the Aurora-McCarthy Funeral Home, 167 Old Hartford Rd., Colchester on Saturday, June 13th beginning with calling hours from 11:30 – 1PM, followed by a memorial service at 1PM at the funeral home. A reception will follow the service at the American Legion in Hebron. Donations in her memory may be made to the American Cancer Society for Breast Cancer research. www.cancer.org or to benefit the Compassion for Cats of New London County.  For online condolences or to share a story of Mary, please visit www.auroramccarthyfuneralhome.com

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