Mary M. (Babcock) Sexton, 84, a longtime resident of Melrose and formerly of Charlestown, entered into eternal life suddenly on Wednesday, May 6, 2026, at Massachusetts General Hospital, surrounded by her loving family.

Born in Boston on July 2, 1941, Mary was the middle daughter of the late Ernest and Mary (O’Gara) Babcock. She was raised in Charlestown, attended Saint Catherine’s Grammar School, and graduated from St. Joseph High School in Somerville.

Mary married the love of her life, Thomas R. Sexton, Sr., on June 2nd, 1968. Together they made their home in Melrose, where they lovingly raised their two sons, Tommy and Kevin.

Mary enjoyed a distinguished career spanning decades establishing Sexton & Donahue Real Estate which later became Century 21 Sexton & Donahue. She was highly respected for her integrity, professionalism, and unwavering commitment to her clients and community. Her customer-centered approach and strong values earned her the admiration and trust of many throughout her career.

She was the recipient of numerous professional awards and accomplishments throughout her years in real estate, a testament to her hard work and dedication. Yet, of all her achievements, Mary was most proud of her two sons, Tommy and Kevin. Watching them grow and succeed brought her immense joy and remained her greatest accomplishment in life.

Although Mary excelled throughout her career, she also faced the unexpected illness of her husband and cared for him devotedly for the rest of his life. Her unwavering commitment to her family was evident in the way she met every challenge with faith, dignity, and strength.

Outside of work, Mary was known for her deep devotion to her faith and family. She was an award-winning nana, a loyal sister and friend, and someone who truly embraced life with warmth, resilience, and grace.

Mary was deeply committed to her community and generously gave her time to many organizations over the years. She served on the Board of Trustees beginning in May 2000 and was appointed Chair in 2015 at the Melrose Memorial Hall. She also served on the Board of Directors at the local YMCA and was very involved with Catholic Charities throughout the years.

Her favorite place was by the ocean with family and friends. She cherished many summers spent on the beach in Marshfield and treasured trips to Aruba and Florida with her sister Jean, creating memories that will be remembered always.

Mary is predeceased by her husband Thomas R. Sexton, Sr. and her parents Ernest and Mary Babcock. She is survived by her two sons, Thomas R. Sexton, Jr. and his wife, Jennifer, Kevin M. Sexton, and his wife Erin, her grandchildren, Madison and JT Sexton; her sister, Jean Babcock; her sister Helen Babcock and partner Tom Buttacavoli; her niece Amy Poftak and husband Ernie; her great-nephew Henry Shosho; her nephew Steven Poftak and his wife Kathleen; her great-nieces Natalie and Vivian Poftak; her great-nephew, Kieran Poftak; her cousins Mary O’Gara, Katie Fornaro, Frank O’Gara and his wife Irene and daughter, Lauren. She is also survived by many dear friends, co-workers and board members she worked with throughout the years.

Her loss leaves a profound void in the lives of all who knew and loved her. Mary will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered for her warmth, strength, faith, and steadfast devotion to her family and friends.

Relatives and friends are invited to attend Mary's visiting hours on Wednesday, May 13, 2026 from 3 to 7 P.M. in The Carr Funeral Home, 220 Bunker Hill St. Charlestown. Her Funeral Mass will be held on Thursday morning, May 14, 2026 at 11 A.M. in The Most Blessed Sacrament Church, 1155 Main St. Wakefield. (PLEASE GO DIRECTLY TO CHURCH). Her burial will take place at Wyoming Cemetery in Melrose.

In lieu of flowers, kindly make a memorial donation in Mary's name to:

Harvest On Vine Food Pantry,

46 Winthrop St.

Charlestown, Mass. 02129

https://stmarystcatherine.org/harvest-on-vine/