Died peacefully on Saturday, September 7, 2024. Born on April 18, 1935 to Stacia (O’Brien) and John R. Gleason, she grew up in St. Paul and St. Peter, MN. Mary Ann wasted no time exploring the world as a stewardess for Northwest Airlines based in New York City and Minneapolis. In 1962, she married Patrick Hollister Lally and together they raised four children. She had a flair for fashion and helped manage the Pied Piper children’s clothing store on Grand Avenue in the 1970s.
She later returned to the airlines which gave her the opportunity to travel, with her favorite destination being Ireland. A great granddaughter of Minnesota territorial pioneers who immigrated from Ireland to Nicollet County, MN, she was proud of her 100% Irish heritage and had a host of cousins who were among her many treasured friends. She drew strength from her faith and was a dedicated volunteer at Catholic Charities. Mary Ann had a passion for estate sales, antiques, and anything chocolate, but her greatest joys were her eight grandchildren. Preceded in death by her parents, husband, and two brothers. Mary Ann is survived by her children: John (Susan Lynch) of San Francisco, Joseph, Brigid (Erik) Gustafson, and Jane (Jon) Montei of the Twin Cities; grandchildren Keira and Patrick Lally, Grace Lally (Paul Grossi), Sara Lally, Jane and Kate Gustafson, Andrew and Crosby Montei, and great granddaughter Peyton Grossi. Mass of Christian Burial at the Church of the Assumption, 51 West 7th Street, St. Paul, MN 55102 10 AM on Thursday, September 12 with Visitation one hour prior to Mass. In lieu of flowers, memorials preferred to Our Lady of Peace Hospice, Jeremiah Program Minneapolis or donor’s choice.