Marigrace O'Leary

Marigrace O’Leary, 63, of Manchester, died unexpectedly at her residence on February 20, 2023. Born in Brighton, MA on February 26, 1959, she was the daughter of the late Charles J. and G. Janet (Small) O’Leary. She was educated in Melrose, MA and graduated from Our Lady of Nazareth Academy. She earned her bachelor’s degree in Criminal Justice from St. Anselm College and her master’s degree in Mental Health Counseling from Rivier College.

In 1981, she began her career as a student teacher at Trinity High School. Over the course of the next 41 years, she would grow into a beloved and respected member of its tight-knit community. Marigrace cherished the relationships she developed with her students and colleagues. Education was more than a vocation; it was her calling. And Trinity High School was her home. Marigrace’s passion for service extended outside of Trinity. She was also a clinical mental health counselor for 18 years. She devoted her life to helping others, and valued the connections she made with colleagues at C.R.E.A.T.E.

Marigrace was obsessed with her grandchildren. They truly were the light of her life. She enjoyed spending the summer in Freedom, NH at her house on Lake Ossipee. She never missed an opportunity to watch a sunset on the dock with family and friends. Many of her students recall how much music moved her. She played classic hits during class, and especially loved Neil Young. Marigrace’s authenticity, vibrancy, and spirit uplifted those around her. Above all else, she will be remembered as a devoted and loving mother, grandmother, sister, niece, teacher, and friend.

Marigrace leaves behind her daughter, Charlotte R. Bielecki and husband Michael of Andover, MA; two grandchildren, August C. and Vera R. Bielecki of Andover, MA; one sister, Jean O’Leary of Melrose, MA; one brother, Chuck O’Leary of Melrose, MA; and one aunt, Mary O’Leary of Wakefield, MA. She was predeceased by both parents; her former husband and father of their daughter, Stanley Gorski; and her former husband, Scott Brown.

SERVICES: Calling hours are from 2pm to 6pm on Sunday, Feb. 26^th at Lambert Funeral Home & Crematory, 1799 Elm St., corner of North St., Manchester, NH 03104. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 10am on Monday, Feb. 27^th at St. Joseph Cathedral, 145 Lowell St., corner of Pine St., Manchester, NH 03104. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to: Pine St. Inn Home, 444 Harrison St., Boston, MA 02118. To leave a message of condolence, please go to