Mary (Headd) Shliapa

Worcester- Mary Margaret (Headd) Shliapa, 85, passed away peacefully on Saturday, January 4, 2020 at home surrounded by her loving family.

She was born in Derrybrien, County Galway, Ireland, the daughter of the late Michael and Mary (McMahon) Headd. She emigrated to the United States in 1953, contributing to society by working hard, supporting her children and serving her community. A true Irish-American success story.

Mary was the longtime owner and operator of Mary's Spa on Millbury Street. She never turned a hungry person in need away. The remainder of her work life, she was a housekeeper, mother and friend to the Holy Cross students, providing hard knock guidance and inspiration.

Mary received the key to the city of Worcester for quietly supporting local community groups and families. She earned the nickname the "Mayor of Millbury Street". As a member of the VFW (Post 3657) Ladies Auxiliary, she served as president. She has been a longtime member of the Ladies Ancient Order of Hibernians (AOH).

Mary enjoyed trips back home to see her family. Being very proud of her Irish heritage, Mary enjoyed listening to and dancing to traditional Irish music. Many a time, Mary spent visiting the NE casinos but loved Las Vegas the most.

Besides her parents, Mary was predeceased by her loving son David "Murphy" Shliapa and her brother Martin from Ireland.

She leaves behind her sons, Stanley Shliapa and partner Maureen Belden of VT; Michael Shliapa and wife Debra Shliapa of Worcester; two grandchildren and five great grandchildren.

Besides her immediate family, Mary leaves behind several younger brothers and sisters from Ireland, England and Ohio: Bridget Martinson and husband Michael; Michael Headd and wife Bridie; Jim Headd and wife Pam; Patrick Headd and wife Anne; John Headd and wife Anne, Joe Headd and wife Moira; Eugene Headd; Theresa Keohane and husband Christy; Brendan Headd and wife Patricia; Rita Morriarty and husband Daniel; Terrance Headd; Sister in Law Bridie Headd; along with over 30 nephews and nieces.

The family would like to thank Joanne Moore, Mark Silverio, and Nadine Piermattei for their years of friendship, caring and support.

The family would like to also thank the Jewish Healthcare Hospice's nurses and Home Health Aids.

Family and friends will gather to honor and celebrate her life at visiting hours on Thursday, January 9th from 4:00pm until 7:00pm at the Callahan, Fay & Caswell Life Celebration Home, 61 Myrtle St., Worcester. Her funeral Mass will be celebrated at 10:00am on Friday, January 10th at St. John's Church, 44 Temple St., Worcester. Burial will follow at Worcester County Memorial Park, Paxton.

In lieu of flowers her family asks that memorial contributions be considered to the Worcester Hibernian Cultural Foundation, 19 Temple St., Worcester, MA 01604 or the Michael J. Fox Foundation.