Mary Moritis

WATERBURY - Mary Moritis, 84, (affectionately called Big Mary) passed away Friday, July 3, 2015 at Beacon Brook Health Center in Naugatuck.

Mrs. Moritis was born August 15, 1930 in Waterbury, the daughter of the late John P. and Mary "Sis" (Loy) McDonald. She was a graduate of Waterbury Catholic High and worked at the Basilica of the Immaculate Conception as a secretary for over 30 years. After her time at the Basilica, she was the Manager of City of Waterbury Credit Union for 10 years.

Big Mary was very proud of her Irish Heritage. She was a member of the Ladies Ancient Order of Hibernians holding several offices and was named Hibernian of the Year. She was a famed member of the Dancing Shamrocks.

Big Mary loved to travel around the country and the world and was always known to lead any group in fun and good times.

She is survived by her son William Moritis of Watertown; her daughter Barbara Hinkley of S.C;

her brother John McDonald and his wife Janet of Waterbury; her sister and best friend Frances Altieri of Waterbury; her brother-in-laws Francis “Pup” Doolan and John Laudati both of Waterbury; three grandchildren; three great-grandchildren; many nieces and nephews. She is pre-deceased by her sisters Rita Doolan and Ellen Laudati as well as her brother-in-law Danny Altieri.

The family would like to thank the staff at Southmayd Home, Wolcott View Manor and Beacon Brook Convalescent for providing Big Mary with such wonderful care.

Arrangements - Funeral services for Mary will be held on Wednesday July 8, 2015, 9:15 from the Alderson-Ford Funeral Home of Waterbury, 270 West Main St., to the Basilica of The Immaculate Conception for a Mass of Christian Burial at 10:00 am. Burial will follow in Calvary Cemetery. Calling hours will be held on Tuesday from 4 to 7 p.m. at the funeral home.