Margaret Philomena McHugh, 88 (née Sugrue), of Katonah, NY and Sarasota, FL, passed away peacefully at home on November 21, 2025, surrounded by her loving family.
Margaret was born in 1937 in Innishannon, County Cork, Ireland, to the late Michael and Ellen Sugrue. The third of five children, she cherished her Irish roots and the village where she was raised.
At the age of 18, Margaret immigrated to the United States, landing in New York City on St. Patrick’s Day. She worked for the American Can Corporation before dedicating herself to raising her family as a devoted homemaker.
In 1961, she married the love of her life, James McHugh, and together they shared 58 wonderful years of marriage before his passing in 2018. Margaret and Jimmy enjoyed 35 years as snowbirds in Sarasota, Florida, with their favorite beach, Siesta Key, holding a special place in their hearts. For 25 years, they proudly chaired the SRV community’s beloved St. Patrick’s Day celebration.
Margaret was a woman of deep faith and an active parishioner at St. Mary of the Assumption Church in Katonah, NY. She served as a Eucharistic Minister, was a member of the Secular Franciscan Order, and participated in the Padre Pio Prayer Group. She was also a proud member of the Ancient Order of Hibernians, Women’s Division, and devoted her time to many charitable organizations, including Rosary Hill and Hospice of Westchester.
She is predeceased by her beloved husband, James; her brothers, Michael and Daniel Sugrue; and her sister, Mary Looney (née Sugrue). She is survived by her brother, John Sugrue; her sisters-in-law, Mary Sugrue and Sarah Sugrue; and many cherished nieces and nephews.
Margaret is also survived by her loving children: Mary Reilly (Charles), Eileen Martini, James McHugh (Lynette), and Peter McHugh (Jennifer). She was the proud grandmother of Ryan F. Martini (Madeleine), Kathleen M. Reilly, Elizabeth A. Martini, Olivia T. Martini, James F. McHugh Jr., Meghan R. McHugh, Sonya M. Gordon-McHugh, and Ronin Gordon-McHugh; and the joyful great-grandmother of one soon-to-arrive great-grandchild.
Margaret will be remembered for her faith, kindness, and devotion to family—a legacy that will continue to inspire all who knew her.
