Obituaries
Irene Duignan of Southampton Dies at 86
A keen and wise adviser, she exhibited the true meaning of "friend."
Irene McMahon Duignan, of Southampton and formerly of Manhasset, died at home on Aug. 22 with her family by her side. She was 86.
Born in New York City and raised in Flushing, Queens, she was the daughter of Michael McMahon and Bridget Hassett McMahon, one of seven children.
She graduated and worked at JP Morgan until her marriage to Philip Duignan (pre-deceased) who was co-owner with her brothers Patrick and William of Abbey Rent-All in Hicksville and Bayside. They raised four children in Manhasset: Michael (pre-deceased), Maureen Duignan, Susan Duignan Foley, and Kevin Duignan all graduates of St. Mary’s and Kevin from .
Find out what's happening in Southamptonwith free, real-time updates from Patch.
She was an adored mother-in-law to Lorraine Duignan, Susan Gordon and Patrick Foley and cherished grandmother and “nana” to: Jennifer and Kristin Brown, Eliza Duignan Richman and Tess Duignan Richman, Benjamin Duignan and Lindsay and Colin Duignan. She is also survived by a sister-in-law, Mary McMahon, of Southampton, and two brothers-in-law, Thomas Duignan, of Northport, and Thomas Adams, of Manhasset, as well as many nieces and nephews and their children.
As beloved and memorable matriarch of the McMahon/Duignan clan, “Aunt Irene” represented strength, integrity, honesty and humor and an unabiding love of life and family that was instilled in every one of her progeny. Among her dear life-long friends, Irene was known for her stalwart support. A keen and wise adviser, she exhibited the true meaning of “friend.” She was entrusted with confidences and shared her respect for her friendships that had no bounds. Her motto, “No Regrets,” was instilled in each of her children and friends and admired by all who met her. Irene was an avid golfer and member of since the 1970s and bridge player. She will be greatly missed and a huge void is felt by the family and circle of friends who rely upon her strength and wisdom.
Find out what's happening in Southamptonwith free, real-time updates from Patch.
A funeral mass at the in Southampton was held on Aug. 25 followed by burial at Sacred Hearts of Jesus and Mary Cemetery, Southampton.
In lieu of flowers, the Duignan family requests donations be sent to the earth-based angels who so lovingly cared for her and her family, of East End Hospice, 481 Westhampton-Riverhead Road, PO Box 1048, Westhampton Beach, NY 11978 or the Basilica of the Sacred Heart in Southampton.
This obituary was prepared by the family, provided by and edited by Patch.
