Mary M. Foley — Melrose Crossing Guard and Community Hero
Written and Photographed by Nancy Clover
Across from St. Mary’s School, on the corner of Grove and Myrtle Streets, stands a small but powerful tribute: a living memorial to Mary M. Foley.
Mary’s story is one of courage, love, and ultimate sacrifice. On September 5, 1985, while faithfully serving as a crossing guard, she pushed a group of children out of harm’s way and was fatally struck by a car.
The memorial plaque in the corner of the park reads:
"Foley made the ultimate sacrifice of love and devotion on September 5, 1985, when she was struck and fatally injured by a car as she pushed a half dozen youngsters to the safety of the sidewalk. Mary lived a life that brought comfort and joy to many. Her life provides a lesson in love, commitment, and sharing that we all should strive to follow. Mary Foley, mother of 11, grandmother of 37, sister to 7, friend to countless others, did much to restore faith in basic human goodness.”
Mary served the City of Melrose as a crossing guard for 25 years. A proud daughter of Irish immigrants, she was just 58 years old when her life was tragically cut short.
Her legacy continues in the park where children laugh and play — the very joy she worked to protect. Her memory is woven into the fabric of Melrose itself, a lasting reminder of courage, devotion, and the quiet heroism of public service.
Mary M. Foley will forever be remembered as a true Melrosian hero.
