Mary J. Harris

August 5th, 2013

Mary was one of those rare people who was liked by most and respected by all among the wide circle of people we interacted with on a daily basis in our work at Loyola Medical Center. She was not only an excellent nurse, but an excellent manager who consistently, without asking for any fanfare, got the work we had to do done and done well. Her confidence and eternal optimism set the tone that eased us through so very many drastic changes throughout the changing times. Her easy laugh and calm voice helped you forget how fast you were moving just trying to keep up.

Even though she excelled at her job, my life has been touched even more by the example she set for us as working women on how to find that balance between work and family. Her love for each of you shone through the joy on her face whenever she spoke of any of you. As serious as she was about excelling at her work, it was clear that her family was the center of her life.

I will miss sharing funny tales about our children’s antics with her and hearing about her travel adventures. May your memories bring you moments of peace and comfort in the days to come.

With Sincere Condolences,

Carol Bresnahan

~Carol Bresnahan
~Friend, Former Co-Worker, Woodridge, Illinois

August 4th, 2013

I extend my deepest, most heartfelt sympathies to Ruben, David, Philip, Michael and Edward on the loss of your beloved wife and mother. May all your wonderful and cherished memories together help and carry you all as you struggle with your grief. Your loss is profound, but your love for one another and Mary will help you in your sad days ahead.
I worked with your mother at Loyola University Hospital. She was lovely, kind to everyone who knew her and a very supportive co-worker and friend – a true joy to work with. Specifically when I think of your mother now, I think of a time when she helped me profoundly as I struggled with my sick newborn granddaughter. Your mother’s deep faith and support carried me along and helped me when I was deeply sad and doubting my Maeve’s diagnosis. She helped me believe that Maeve was going to recover and I was able to stay positive for my family and daughter. I will never forget her friendship and support at this difficult time.
Your mother was an excellent nurse and a great manager to all of us. She was an exemplary role-model, and deeply supportive of us in all aspects of our duties at the hospital. She was the first person I interviewed with for my position, and after she diligently questioned me about my experience and abilities she finished by asking me if I could cook…she said the group had lots of holiday parties and she wanted to make sure I could bring something delicious to the table. She was always concerned about our “group” and how we worked and bonded together.
She was a wonderful and kind person…and she was so well liked by all that knew her at work. Please know in your grief that none of you are alone, you all have a VERY large group of people who offer their prayers and tears for your mother. Mary was truly a person for others, and I count myself very lucky to have worked alongside her. May God rest her beautiful soul. I know she is at peace and will keep a very close eye on all of you from above.
Again with my deepest sympathies,
Dottie Hughes

~dottie hughes
~friend, co-worker, Chicago, IL