Maryalice Sharkey

Maryalice Sharkey of Winthrop passed away surrounded by the love of her family on July 12, 2026.

Born in the Mayfair section of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, she was the daughter of the late Bridget Eileen McGrath Scott and James P. Wade and was also lovingly raised by the late Joseph F. Scott.

Maryalice was the oldest of eight children and is survived by her siblings: John Wade and his wife, Mary Jo; Gina Legel and her husband, Tom; Peggy Donlen and her husband, Bob; Richard Scott and his late wife, Mary; Tommy Scott and his wife, Amy; Marlene Murphy and her husband, Jim; and Joe P. Scott. She also leaves behind many cherished cousins, nieces, nephews and dear friends.

She shared 54 wonderful years of marriage with her devoted husband, John T. Sharkey. Their love story began while they were students at Western Kentucky University, where they met and married shortly after graduation. Together, they built a life centered on love, family, friendship, and unwavering loyalty to one another.

Maryalice was the beloved mother of Erin Manzi and her husband, Rick of Wakefield; Katie Marino and her husband, Bob, of Medford; and John Sharkey of Melrose. She was the cherished “Mimi” to her five grandchildren—Derek, Alexis, Olivia, Marc and James—who brought immeasurable joy to her life. They will forever treasure the countless memories they shared with her, from holidays at Mimi’s and adventures at the family’s New Hampshire home in Tuftonboro to sleepovers in Winthrop. No matter how simple the time spent together, Mimi made every moment special!

Teaching was not simply Maryalice’s profession—it was her calling. She dedicated many years to educating the children of Winthrop, teaching at Winthrop Junior High School, St. John’s School, Winthrop Middle School, and Winthrop’s Alternative High School. She believed deeply in the potential of every student and left a lasting impact on countless young lives through her compassion, encouragement, and dedication.

Her commitment to education extended far beyond the classroom. Maryalice proudly served as president of the Winthrop Teachers Association and as a member of the Winthrop School Committee, tirelessly advocating for students, teachers, and public education. She was also nominated by former Speaker of the House Robert DeLeo and received recognition from the Commission on the Status of Women, honoring her outstanding contributions to her community.

A lifelong supporter of Winthrop athletics, Maryalice loved sports and was one of the town’s biggest fans. She enjoyed attending games of all kinds and especially loved coaching Holy Rosary CYO girls’ basketball at its inception. She was also a member of the Winthrop Skating Club and inspired young athletes with the same enthusiasm, patience, and encouragement that defined every aspect of her life.

Throughout her life, Maryalice was known for her warmth, generosity, and unwavering dedication to those she loved. Whether spending time with family, supporting her community, or encouraging others to reach their potential, she approached every aspect of her life with kindness and enthusiasm. Her legacy of love, service, and devotion will be cherished by all who knew her.

Her funeral was conducted from the Caggiano-O’Maley-Frazier Funeral Home, Winthrop on Wednesday, July 15, 2026 followed by a funeral mass in St. John the Evangelist Church. Services concluded with the interment in the Belle Isle section of Winthrop Cemetery.

To sign the online guestbook, go to www.caggianofuneralhome.com.