Nancy Flaherty of Hopkinton: A Life Remembered

Nancy Flaherty, 84, of Hopkinton, was embraced by eternal peace on May 28, 2026. She was surrounded in death, as she preferred to be in life, by love and music. Known for her unique mix of elegance and earthiness, she was a free spirit. However, she remained grounded by her strong faith and respect for tradition.

Nancy had a penchant for quirky and unconventional folks, legs that just wouldn’t quit, and a dark Irish wit in good times. Her wit was especially keen in bad ones. She was all of these things. However, above all else, she was deeply and profoundly human.

Born in Boston, Nancy was the daughter of the late Eustace and Ann (Crowley) Scannell.  She was the cherished wife of Mark J. Flaherty Jr., who passed into peace on June 11, 2007. Nancy is survived by her three devoted daughters, Deirdre Flaherty, Susan DiPalma and her husband David, Anne Mermelstein and her husband Josh. She is also survived by her beloved grandchildren, Katie, Becca, Vince, Celia, and Mark. Additionally, she is survived by many nieces and nephews.

Nancy also leaves behind her brothers Paul Scannell and his wife Gail, and Charlie Scannell, as well as a sister-in-law, Marlin. She is predeceased by Mary and Joe Pomarole and by her brothers, Michael Scannell and his wife Yvette, Frank Scannell, and Marty Scannell. Nancy is also survived by her step-sisters Maria Scannell, Natalie Scannell, and Stacey Roh. She is also survived by her step-brothers Dan Scannell and his wife Joeng, Edwin Scannell, and David Scannell.

Visitation will take place on Monday, June 8th, from 3:00–6:00 P.M. at Chesmore Funeral Home in Hopkinton, 57 Hayden Rowe St. www.ChesmoreFuneralHome.com A memorial funeral mass will be celebrated on Tuesday, June 9th, at 11:00 A.M. at St. John the Evangelist Church in Hopkinton.

Burial will follow at Mt. Auburn Cemetery in Hopkinton. There will be a reception from 1:00–3:00 P.M. at Cornell’s Irish Pub in Hopkinton.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Nancy’s favorite charities: Christian Foundation for Children and Aging, Catholic Relief Services, Archdiocese for the Military Services, St. Vincent de Paul in care of St. John the Evangelist. In addition, you can support Doctors without Borders, Special Olympics of Massachusetts, Project Just Because, Rosie’s Place or the Arthritis Foundation, Massachusetts Chapter.

Peace and love