Obituary: Annette Grealish

Annette C. Grealish, at 88

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, N.C. Born April 4, 1937, in Boston, Mrs. Grealish brought warmth, joy, and a loving spirit to everyone around her.

Raised in South Boston, Mrs. Grealish moved to Hull 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. Mrs. Grealish especially loved traveling, cherishing several memorable cross-country journeys with John, discovering the beauty of America. Compassionate, caring, and generous at heart, Mrs. Grealish 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 nursing 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, N.C., to enjoy tranquility and sunshine, embracing the southern warmth and hospitality of their new community.

Mrs. Grealish 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 also was 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 Mrs. Grealish’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 Mrs. Grealish’s life and memories was held on Monday, July 7 at Andrews Mortuary in Hampstead, N.C.

In remembrance, the family kindly suggests that donations be made in Mrs. Grealish’s honor to Autism Speaks or the Neurofibromatosis Northeast organization (NFNortheast.org). Both causes were close to her heart.

Share online condolences with the family at www.andrewsmortuary.com.