Chicago Mourns Loss Margaret Maggie Daley

citizen |

An overflow crowd packed Old St. Patricks Catholic Church, witnessing the funeral services of Maggie Daley which she helped plan, while hundreds more gathered outside to hear the program over a loud speaker.
An overflow crowd packed Old St. Patricks Catholic Church, witnessing the funeral services of Maggie Daley which she helped plan, while hundreds more gathered outside to hear the program over a loud speaker.

photo

STANDARD

Former Mayor Richard Daley stands with his family during his wifes funeral holding the hands of his grandchildren who are distraught with emotion.

On Monday, hundreds gathered at Old St. Patricks Catholic Church at 700 W. Adams St. to pay their last respects to Chicagos former first lady, Margaret Maggie Daley. Daley passed away on Nov. 24, 2011, Thanksgiving Day, at the age of 68 after a nine-year battle with breast cancer.

An overflow crowd packed Old St. Patricks and witnessed the service which Daley herself helped plan, while hundreds more gathered outside to hear the program over a loud speaker.

A multitude of dignitaries from across the country attended the service including first lady Michelle Obama, Mayor Rahm Emanuel, Vice President Joe Biden, IL Gov. Pat Quinn and U.S. Secretary of Education, Arne Duncan.

Former Mayor Richard Daley arrived at the funeral with his children and grandchildren, all carrying a single white tulip and led by a British bagpipe band.

The ceremony was officiated by the Rev. John Wall. I often meet people from Pittsburgh and I ask them, do you know the best gift that Pittsburgh gave to Chicago? Maggie Corbett Daley, our first lady, Wall spoke of Daley during the service. It truly is the greatest gift, the best gift, that Pittsburgh ever gave this city." said Wall.

Daleys son, Patrick Daley delivered the eulogy with his sisters Nora Daley Conroy and Lally Daley Hotchkiss standing by his side.

To us, she was a grandmother, aunt, sister, wife, and mother. Were so proud of our mother. She lived a positive life, impacting so many. For such an accomplished woman with so many professional and personal commitments, she always had time to simply be our mother," he said.

Daley is also remembered as a public servant and a caring person, dedicating most of her 22 years as Chicagos first lady advocating for the citys youth. For example, in 1991, Daley created and launched the After School Matters programs, a non-profit organization whose mission is to provide Chicago public high school teens opportunities to explore and develop their talents, while gaining critical skills for work, college and beyond.

In addition, the Maggie Daley Center for Women's Cancer Care at Northwestern University was named in honor of the citys former first lady because she was an integral part of the Northwestern community for years, lending her name and support to raise awareness.

Daley was buried atHoly Sepulchre Cemetery in south suburban Alsip, to be laid to rest near other Daley family members.

By: Abbra Stiffend

Latest Stories

Latest Podcast

STARR Community Services International, Inc.