WILMINGTON — Annette C. (Duran) Grealish, fondly known as Ma, Mom, Grammy, and Gigi, passed away peacefully on July 1, 2025, at the age of 88 in Wilmington, NC. Born April 4, 1937, in Boston, MA, Annette brought warmth, joy, and a loving spirit to everyone around her.
Raised in South Boston, Annette moved to Hull, MA, in 1968, alongside her beloved late husband of nearly 60 years, John M. Grealish. Hull soon became home and was the setting of many happy memories of family outings to the beach, lively card and game nights, and frequent casino adventures. Annette especially loved traveling, cherishing several memorable cross-country journeys with John, discovering the beauty of America. Compassionate, caring, and generous at heart, Annette dedicated her life not only to her own seven cherished children but also opened her door wide to many foster children, providing them with love, support, and comfort. Her devotion to family and children defined much of her life.
In later years, she found renewed purpose and fulfillment in her career as a Certified Nurse Assistant and Home Health Aide, where her inherent caregiving nature allowed her to enhance the lives of many individuals and families. In the mid-1990s, Annette and John retired to Hampstead, NC, to enjoy tranquility and sunshine, embracing the southern warmth and hospitality of their new community.
Annette treasured family gatherings and took immense pride in her extensive family. She was predeceased by her parents, Annette and Joseph Duran as well as siblings Marylou, Jimmy, Danny, Johnny, Peggy, Eileen, Ruthie, and Jay. She was also predeceased by her grandson, Joey.
She is survived by her brother David, who resides in Oklahoma. She also leaves behind daughters Kathleen A. Lorina and husband Joseph, Annemarie Ferguson and husband David, Maureen Murakami, Annette C. Donahue, Michelle A. Cobbett and husband Ray; sons John M. Grealish, Jr., and Charles Wilder and wife Meri. She was blessed to have many grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Her presence in their lives was a beacon of steadfast support, unconditional love, and endless encouragement.
Among the greatest joys in Annette’s life was the precious time spent with her grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Whether sharing stories, games or simply laughter, Grammy’s love was ever-present, strong and unwavering. Through generations, her legacy of kindness and dedication continues to blossom.
A Memorial Service celebrating Annette’s life and memories will be held at 2:00 p.m. Monday, July 7, 2025, at Andrews Mortuary in Hampstead, NC, with Rev. John Lyle, O.S.F.S. officiating. Family and friends are invited to gather and share stories of the remarkable woman who touched so many.
In remembrance, the family kindly suggests that donations be made in Annette’s honor to Autism Speaks or the Neurofibromatosis Northeast organization. Both causes were close to her heart.
