Cover photo for Mary Walsh's Obituary
Mary Walsh Profile Photo
1939 Mary 2016

Mary Walsh

November 24, 1939 — June 18, 2016

Mary V. G. Walsh, nee Goekjian, passed away on June 18, 2016, surrounded by close family.

Mary was born on November 24, 1939. She attended elementary and high school in Shaker Heights, before attending Connecticut College for Women and Kent State University, from which she received a BA degree. She earned a law degree from Cleveland State University.

Mary's love of theater blended perfectly with her love of her actor/lawyer husband Anthony A. Walsh, with whom she shared a law practice until his death in 2005. She continued her individual practice until her own death. Mary continued her support of Dobama Theater productions until this most recent season.

An ardent feminist, Mary devoted much of her practice to family law and representation of women in difficult circumstances. She did a great deal of pro bono work, often through Legal Aid, and took part in fundraising for several causes and groups, including St. Gregory of Narek Armenian Church.

As the daughter of a veterinarian, Mary loved and cared for animals. Widely traveled, she was extremely knowledgeable about art and music, both classical and modern. She was also a faithful fan of the Browns, Indians and Cavaliers.

Mary's thoughtfulness and generosity to family and friends is legendary. As one friend said, Mary gave of herself widely, often in ways not seen or acknowledged, working behind the scenes. She is survived by a brother, Gregory Goekjian, (Jane); a sister, Valerie Zahirsky, (Michael); nieces and nephews Barbara Soroka (Michael), Mary Livesay (Andrew), Ben Goekjian, and Peter Zahirsky; and eight grand-nieces and nephews, as well as countless friends.

In lieu of flowers, friends may make contributions to Dobama Theater at 2340 Lee Rd., Cleveland Heights, where a memorial gathering will be held at 4 p.m. on Saturday, July 30th. On Sunday the 31st, a brief requiem service will immediately follow the Divine Liturgy at St. Gregory of Narek Armenian Church, 678 Richmond Road in Richmond Heights, at approximately 11:45 a.m. A gathering and light meal in the church hall will follow. Mary's friends are most welcome to attend both events.


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