Mary P. Houghton, lifelong resident of Somerville, passed away peacefully after a short illness on January 4, 2026. She was born on June 8, 1964, the beloved daughter of the late  Agnes (Fitzgerald) and Charles H. Houghton.

Although born with Cerebral Palsy,  Mary lived an incredibly full life, traveling to distant places with her family and meeting many amazing people who enriched her life. But family was her core, and she treasured the time spent with them, from her devoted parents, to loving siblings, and caring nieces and nephews.

Mary loved being a part of whatever was happening, from painting ceramics for her birthday party, to her annual Hampton Beach vacation, or visiting with friends and family in Ireland. She became the center of attention wherever she went, which was her favorite thing of all.

Mary enjoyed watching all the classic comedies on TV and was lucky enough to meet some of the actors on her favorite shows. She also loved to attend concerts and catch up with her favorite Irish tenor.  Mary even attended several polo matches, and of course, befriended the captain of the team. Mary wasn't the sportiest person but loved to go swimming and took part yearly in the Somerville Olympics…A Special Kind.

Mary's education began in Somerville schools, and she graduated from the Campus School at Boston College. She then transitioned to a day habilitation program at the Walnut Street Center.

Mary is survived by her siblings Maureen Foster, Kathleen Houghton, Sheila Tracy and her husband Paul, Charlie Houghton and Brenda Houghton all of Somerville and brother-in-law Michael Phillips.  As well as nieces and nephews Danielle O'Hearn, Megan Costa, Michael Phillips, Jonathan Phillips, Diana Young, Brendan Phillips, Brian Phillips, Emily Jean-Louis, Christine Tracy, Patrick Tracy and Charlie Houghton. Also several great nieces and nephews, and cherished lifelong friend Sandy Nelson

Mary was predeceased by her parents,  Agnes (Fitzgerald) and Charles H. Houghton, her sisters Rita Houghton and Eileen Phillips, brother-in-law Michael Foster and nephew Alex Foster.

Mary's life was a testament to compassion and inclusion.  In her memory, may we each extend a helping hand to someone with a disability, continuing her legacy of love.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the Campus School at Boston College, 235 Beacon St. Chestnut Hill, MA http://bc.edu/csdonate

or SMILE Mass http://www.smilemass.org

Mary's life was a testament to compassion and inclusion. In her memory, may we each extend a helping hand to someone with a disability, continuing her legacy of love.

A funeral procession will be held from the George L. Doherty Funeral Home 855 Broadway (Powder House Sq.) Somerville on Monday, January 19th at 9:00AM. Followed by a funeral mass celebrated in St. Catherine Church, 179 Summer St. Somerville at 10:00AM.

Relatives and friends are invited.

Calling hours will be held on Sunday, January 18th from 2:00PM to 5:00PM.

Services will conclude with interment at Oak Grove Cemetery, Medford.