Mary Jo (Leneski) Noonan, 91, of North Reading and formerly of Malden, passed away peacefully on Friday, November 14, 2025, surrounded by the love and comfort of her family in the home she cherished for more than 60 years.
Mary was predeceased by the love of her life, Joseph Noonan, whom she had been married to for over 65 years. They loved traveling and square dancing — even taking part in the largest square dance held under the Astrodome.
In her early years, Mary worked as a switchboard operator for AT&T, but her greatest work was the life she built with Joe as a homemaker and secretary for their family business, H. Newton Marshall Painting Inc.
Anyone who ever met Mary knew how much she loved making people smile. She had a playful heart and a wonderful sense of fun — she especially loved dressing up for Halloween. One of her favorite things to say was that she “liked to aggravate people”. Mary greeted visitors with “hey, hey, hey!” and sent them off with a loving pinch on the cheeks. She brought warmth, energy, and a generous spirit to everything she touched.
Mary loved sewing, making clothes for her children and square-dancing dresses for herself. She enjoyed westerns, puzzles, and board games. Her favorite hobby was bowling, which she continued into her 70’s as part of the Tuesday Morning Bowling League at Candlewood Lanes in North Reading, where she formed many cherished friendships.
Above all, Mary was most proud of her family. She is survived by her five children: Frederick Noonan of Florida, Douglas Noonan of Massachusetts, Neal Noonan of Florida, Judithe Poirier of Massachusetts, and Caryn Noonan of New Hampshire. She leaves behind 13 beloved grandchildren and many other caring and devoted family members who will carry her memory forward with love.
Calling hours will be held on Tuesday, November 18, from 5:00 PM – 7:00 PM at the Croswell Funeral Home, 19 Bow Street, North Reading.
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made in Mary’s memory to All Care’s Grateful Giving page (https://allcare.org/grateful/).
www.croswellfuneralhome.com
Rest in eternal peace Mary. I promise not to steal your pen.
Rest in peace Mary and prayers for your Family.
Mary, Mary, going to miss your playful. tap on my right arm, which is still sore.MacDonalds wont be the same without you..Save a spot for me ..Love you Art & Laurie
Judy I’m so sorry for your loss.. I’m thinking of you and sending many hugs ❤️
You have been an incredible backbone to so many for so many years! I will never forget your ability to always carry kindness and grace and to always give kindness and grace……even when yelling at us Barnes kids and our dirt bikes ……I will miss gossiping with you as I grew older and the Felix kids will never forget your impact on their lives, your kindness and your halloweens! Miss you so much already….so grateful I got a moment to see you when you returned home…. Love you, always! xoxo
Thoughts and Prayers to the Family and Friends of Mary-May she rest in Peace.
To Doug and family, so sorry for your loss. Please find solace in knowing your in our prayers.