Catholic Charities champion named distinguished grad
In light of her more than five decades of service to the community through Catholic Charities, the Class of 2021 chose the late Mary Patricia DeMucci for its 41st annual Butler Senior High School Distinguished Graduate Award.
DeMucci, who graduated in 1940 from Butler High School, began working for Butler Catholic Charities that same year.She remained a dedicated employee for 55 years, first as a secretary and eventually as director, social worker and adoption consultant.DeMucci was instrumental in the adoptions of more than 400 children during her time at Butler Catholic Charities, and completed her tasks while earning her degree from Carlow College.She retired in 1995, but was unable to stay away. DeMucci returned to volunteer at Catholic Charities and served as volunteer coordinator for three years.A lifelong member of St. Michael the Archangel Church on Center Avenue, DeMucci served on the building committee when the new church was built and the finance committee when the church was later renovated. She belonged to the St. Michael Ladies Guild and was a lector and parish council member during her long and active association with the church.In 1978, DeMucci was named to Who's Who of American Women, and in 1979 received the Woman of the Year Award from the Butler Business and Professional Women's Club.Her name was entered into the U.S. House of Representatives Congressional Records Book in 1989.In 1995, her beloved Catholic Charities established the Mary P. DeMucci Service Award, which continues to be given annually to a leader who has performed outstanding service to the church and community.DeMucci died Oct. 31, 2006, at her home at age 85, and was buried in the St. Michael cemetery.“The outstanding professional achievements and unfailing work in giving back to the Butler community are an inspiration to all, and the Class of 2021 is proud to make Mary Patricia DeMucci their selection for the Butler Senior High School Distinguished Graduate Award,” said a news release from John Wyllie, principal at Butler Senior High.
