Elizabeth V. (Donahue) McGuiness

Elizabeth V. (Donahue) McGuiness, 90, passed away at home on Saturday, July 12, 2025 surrounded by her loving family. Born January 7, 1935 in Worcester, she was the daughter of John J. and Elizabeth V. (Harney) Donahue.

She is survived by her three children, Michael McGuiness, Meggan Ross (Chris) and John M. McGuiness (Robert Klipper); daughter-in-law, Margot Abels; seven grandchildren, Maddie, Courtland and Riley McGuiness; Taryn Alvarez (Luis), Brittany and Nicholas Ross; Makayla Abels-McGuiness; two great-grandchildren, Zoe and Xander Alvarez; her beloved, dedicated and tireless caregiver, AK; her two brothers, R. Stephen Donahue and Philip Donahue and his wife Charlene, and her sisters-in-law, Joann and Patricia Donahue; her brother-in-law, Thomas Powers and his children whom she held dear, John Powers (Sheryl) and Meredith Powers (Susan DiClemente) and many nieces and nephews.

Along with her parents Elizabeth was predeceased by her husband, John A. McGuiness; her daughter, Bridget E. McGuiness; her sister, Sharon T. Powers; her brothers, John, Thomas, William and Donald Donahue; and her sisters-in-law, Elaine and Nancy Donahue.

Elizabeth was a life-long resident of Worcester. She graduated from Commerce High School and went straight to work holding various jobs, one of her favorites being an Arthur Murray Dance Instructor. She knew the city streets like the back of her hand and loved figuring out shortcuts to avoid traffic during her daily travels. She was a talented gardener, seamstress, stained glass artist and cook. Her lemon and cranberry breads were always in high demand. Her hobbies and interests included tennis, bowling, shorthand, calligraphy, following the stock market and home repair.

Raising her children and spending time with all of her family were Elizabeth’s two biggest joys. Caring for any family member in need was a given. She will be greatly missed.

There will be a calling hour on Monday, July 21, at 10 a.m. in Blessed Sacrament Church, 555 Pleasant St., Worcester. The funeral Mass will follow at 11 a.m. in the church. Burial will be in St. John’s Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers donations may be made to VNA Care at https://vnacare.org/ or JHC Hospice at www.jhccenter.org.