Mary Louise Barraclough

Mary Louise Barraclough, of Salisbury Beach, known to many as Mary, passed away peacefully on September 14, 2026, in Methuen, Massachusetts, from natural causes. She was born on October 24, 1944, in Lawrence, Massachusetts, and lived a life marked by kindness, creativity, and a spirited sense of adventure. 

Mary was the beloved daughter of the late Fred A. and E. Louise (Leshner) Barraclough, Sr. She was a cherished sister to the late Fred A. “Art” Barraclough, Jr. and Ralph E. Barraclough, and she also held a special place in the lives of her sister-in-law, Barbara J. Barraclough of Salem, New Hampshire, and her many nephews and nieces. 

Family was always central to Mary’s life, and she treasured the time she spent with those she loved. She is survived by her daughter, Jill Murphy and her husband, Mark, of Derry, New Hampshire, and by her son, Richard Verrier Jr. and his partner, Stacy, of Swansea, Massachusetts. Mary was a proud and loving grandmother to six grandchildren, Eliza, Justine, Jennifer, Richard III, James, and Alyssa, and she was also blessed with six great-grandchildren and three great-great-grandchildren. 

Her family brought her great joy, and she took pride in every generation that followed her. Mary grew up in Methuen and later attended Tenney High School in Methuen, Massachusetts. She continued her education in nursing school in Lawrence, where she developed the compassion and discipline that would guide her throughout her working life. She was a dedicated Christian whose faith was an important part of her life and a source of strength and comfort. During her career, Mary worked at Tewksbury State Hospital in Tewksbury, Massachusetts, where she contributed her care and commitment to others, and later at the Internal Revenue Service in Andover, Massachusetts. In both places, she was respected for her reliability, her warm personality, and her willingness to help. She carried herself with a quiet confidence and a thoughtful manner that left a lasting impression on those around her. Mary was a friendly, creative, and adventurous woman who enjoyed life in simple but meaningful ways. She loved the beach and found peace and happiness near the water. She also enjoyed reading and gardening, both of which reflected her appreciation for beauty, growth, and reflection. One of her favorite pastimes was watching and feeding birds at her multiple feeders, where she delighted in the presence of nature and the daily visitors that came to her yard. She was also a devoted fan of rock and roll, and she especially loved Elvis Presley, whose music brought her joy and fond memories.

Those who knew Mary will remember her for her welcoming nature, her imagination, and her willingness to embrace new experiences. She had a way of making others feel comfortable and valued, and her presence brought warmth to family gatherings and everyday moments alike. Her life was one of devotion to family, steady work, and personal interests that gave her happiness and purpose.

Mary Louise Barraclough will be deeply missed by her family, friends, and all who had the privilege of knowing her. Her memory will live on in the hearts of those she loved, and she will be remembered with affection, gratitude, and enduring love.

Friends and family are invited to calling hours at Dewhirst Boles Funeral Home, 80 Broadway, Methuen, MA on Tuesday September 22, 2026, 6:00pm – 8:00pm. Mary’s Funeral Service will be held at the funeral home on Wednesday September 23, 2026 at 12:00 noon. Burial will follow at Walnut Grove Cemetery, Grove Street, Methuen, MA

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