Published in the October 2, 2015 edition
THE GREAT-GRANDCHILDREN of crossing guard Mary Foley distributed homemade Irish bread as a way to thank all the city’s crossing guards on the 30th anniversary of Mary’s tragic death Sept. 5. This was taken in Mary Foley Park. Back row: Amanda Ciulla, Emma Vrooman, Maive Turner, Brendan Turner, Tyler Bellandi. Front row: Courtney Borstel, Ashley Bellandi, Abby Vrooman, Mrs. Sandra Cronin, Ryan Turner, Maggie Turner, Nicholas Vrooman and Brooke Borstel.
MELROSE — Mary Foley died tragically on Sept. 5, 1985 when the St. Mary School crossing guard pushed six children out of the way of a motorist. This year is the 30th anniversary of a hero’s death.
The 58-year-old had 10 children and today would have 37 grandchildren and 32 great-grandchildren with more on the way. There’s no question she would have loved all of them, and on the 30th anniversary of Mary’s death, some of her great-grandchildren showed that same affection by honoring all crossing guards throughout Melrose.
Several passed out delicious Irish bread made by one of Mary’s daughter to thank all crossing guards for their service.
At one point, the great-grandkids went to Mary Foley Park to have their picture taken with Sandra Cronin, the senior city crossing guard. The 32-year crossing guard had two years on the job when Mary was killed but knew her very well.
