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Mary Lou
Moran
July 26, 1932 – October 28, 2024
Mary Louise Coane Moran, affectionately known as "Mary Lou," passed away peacefully on October 28, 2024, at the age of 92. She was born in Philadelphia, PA, to Elmira and Robert Coane, Jr. Mary Lou was preceded in death by her parents, her husband, James J. Moran, her sister Anne Barbara (Coane) Romano, and her son-in-law, J. Bradford Moser. She is survived by her children, Gregory R. Moran and Jamie L. Moser (nee Moran), and her granddaughter, Brynne A. Moser. Also surviving are her nephew, Jeffrey R. Romano, and his wife, Margaret Romano (nee Quinn), as well as their children. Mary Lou will also be missed by her Godchildren, cousins, nieces, nephews, and all of whom were touched by her warmth and love.
Mary Lou was born and raised in Philadelphia, PA. She graduated from Hallahan High School in Philadelphia, and went on to pursue a passion for dance that would define much of her early life.
Mary Lou was a student at the Florence Cowanova School of Dance and, in the 1950s, earned a prestigious spot as a Rockette at Radio City Music Hall, that remained a highlight of her dance career. In 1958, she married James J. Moran, and together they raised a family, starting with their son Gregory, followed by their daughter Jamie.
In addition to her professional career in dance, Mary Lou spent many years teaching dance to children, teens and adults instilling in them the same love for the art form that she had. She also worked at Gulf Oil and later at PNC, where she dedicated 25 years of service before retiring.
Mary Lou's independent spirit and values were instilled in her by her mother, and Mary Lou raised her children with the same values. Her kitchen was always filled with the delicious aromas of home- cooked meals she insisted on preparing herself, bringing her family together for many years. Her career was also a priority, and she had many interests. Mary Lou had a passion for the arts and a deep appreciation for the theatre, classical ballet, and musicals. She enjoyed refinishing furniture and memorizing songs and poetry.
Mary Lou was a woman of extraordinary beauty, both inside and out. A close family friend often referred to her as "Jim's Grace Kelly," a testament to her elegance and poise. She was known for her genuine interest in the lives of others, preferring to listen to their stories rather than share her own. She accomplished the goals she set for herself and was happy with her choices. Over the years several people stopped by her home, or stopped her while she ran errands in town, to thank her for the positive impact she had in their lives.
Mary Lou's legacy will live on in her family and in the hearts of all who knew her. She will be remembered for her kindness, grace, and enduring strength, and has defined a life well lived.
Relatives and friends are invited on Thursday November 14th, Visitation from 9:30 to 10:30 AM with Funeral Mass at 10:30 AM at Our Mother of Good Counsel Church, 31 Pennswood Rd., Bryn Mawr, PA 19010. Interment will follow in SS. Peter & Paul Cemetery, Springfield, PA.
In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made in her name to the SPCA or the Arbor Day Foundation's "Grow Hope" after Hurricanes Helene and Milton.
Our Mother of Good Counsel Church
9:30 - 10:30 am
Our Mother of Good Counsel Church
Starts at 10:30 am
SS. Peter & Paul Cemetery
Starts at 12:00 pm
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