South Boston celebrates 100 years of Mary Shanley

It’s not every day that someone reaches 100 years old — and it’s certainly not every day that an entire building comes together to celebrate it. The residents of South Boston NDC’s 376 West Fourth Street senior building gathered to honor Mary Shanley Monday, Oct. 27, on her milestone 100th birthday, filling the community room with love and laughter as they celebrated a century of her life, faith, and friendship.

The celebration was a heartfelt surprise, organized by South Boston NDC, along with Carole Sullivan and Claire Lyons. Mary was truly delighted — and visibly surprised — when she arrived at the party, lovingly escorted by her daughter and son-in-law, Eileen and Ron Rumble.

City Councilors Ed Flynn and Erin Murphy and Father Joe White were among the guests.

Councilor Flynn shared warm remarks on behalf of the City of Boston, saying, “On behalf of the residents of South Boston, we wanted to wish Mary a happy birthday — 100 years old! We’re proud to call Mary our neighbor. She’s a wonderful lady, a wonderful mother, and she’s contributed so much to the residents of South Boston and really across the city.”

Councilors Flynn and Murphy presented an official proclamation from the Boston City Council, honoring Mary’s life and accomplishments:

“In recognition of 100 years of life, love, and community spirit, you came to America at the age of 19 from a small village in Galway as the oldest of nine children. You showed strength and courage from an early age,” Murphy said, adding Mary met her beloved husband, Michael, at the Hibernian Hall and were married at St. Cecilia’s Church in the South End.

The citation went on to celebrate Mary’s creative spirit and generosity, noting her talents as a baker and costume designer who lovingly handmade Irish dance dresses and was well-known for her famous chocolate chip cookies. Mary and Michael raised four daughters and took immense pride in their growing family, including three granddaughters — Mary, Cassidy, and Genevieve. Two of her daughters, Eileen Rumble (and her husband, Ron) and Jane Shanley were at the party.

Father Joe White blessed Mary with an image of Our Lady of Boston, saying, “You’ve spent more of your life in Boston than in Galway, and that's a special blessing on you and your faith that you always bring with you everywhere.”

A second proclamation from Mayor Michelle Wu and the City of Boston’s Age Strong Commission recognized Mary’s commitment to hard work, dedication to family, and her love for the community.

As guests sang “Happy Birthday” and shared stories over lunch from Alfredo's, the room was filled with smiles and the unmistakable warmth of a life well-lived. Someone remarked with laughter, “Her birthday — and we all get a free lunch! That’s a good deal!”

Mary, gracious as ever, smiled and thanked everyone for coming.

From Galway to South Boston, from dance halls to family kitchens, from raising daughters to inspiring neighbors — Mary Shanley’s 100 years are a testament to faith, resilience, and love.

Happy Centennial, Mary! Here’s to many more days of joy, laughter, and chocolate chip cookies.