Obituary: Mary Jane (McDonough) Vaccaro, 79

March 25, 1945 — April 12, 2024

Mary Jane (McDonough) Vaccaro of Reading passed away unexpectedly on Friday, April 12, 2024 at her home. She is 79 years of age.

Born on Sunday, March 25, 1945 in Scranton, Pennsylvania, Mary Jane is the loving daughter of the late James McDonough and Mary (Rummerfield) McDonough. Mary Jane is a warm, kind & gentle daughter, sister, wife, mother, aunt and friend. She will be deeply missed. Mary Jane (also known as Janie, MJ, mama, mom, auntie) was and continues to be a ray of light. Kind, compassionate, and empathetic; she was a protective mama bird, but possessed the best of both worlds as she let her daughters grow and expand into their own individual selves. As the youngest of three kids, with two older brothers, she often reminded her own daughters that she always wished she had a sister (so they should be grateful and stop bickering!). She was lucky to have gained five sisters-in-law in her life, and a solid and wonderful group of friends, fondly referred to as the “Ya Ya’s.” She was also fortunate to have been so close with her own mother. Sisterhood was strong in her life. As was her relationship with her husband, Michael. Together for over 50 years, she was not only proud but impressed by everything he did. A consummate optimist, she encouraged everyone around her to see the goodness in themselves and in the world. She made the best snacks. She gave the best compliments. She was the best cheerleader for everyone she loved. Although her form has changed, her energy and love remains with us all.

Mary Jane is the beloved wife of Michael Vaccaro. She is the devoted mother of Chrissy Vaccaro and Cindy Vaccaro and her partner Dave Serighelli. The dear sister of Jim McDonough and his wife Joyce and Bill McDonough and his wife Maureen, Mary Jane is also lovingly survived by many nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.

Family and friends are cordially invited to gather and share memories with Mary Jane’s Family on Saturday, May 4th from 1-4pm in the Doherty – Barile Family Funeral Home, 11 Linden Street READING.  Parking attendants and elevator are available.

In lieu of flowers, please consider making donations in Mary Jane’s memory to the MSPCA – Angell, Attn: Donations 350 South Huntington Avenue, Boston, Massachusetts 02130 or by referring to https://www.mspca.org/donate-now/

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