Mary Genevieve (Scheving) Deraney went peacefully home on Thursday, July 23, 2026, at the age of 88, surrounded by the love and memories of a life well lived.

Mary was born on October 19, 1937, in Grand Forks, North Dakota, to John and Mary Scheving. She attended Sacred Heart School, where she formed many lifelong friendships and a strong foundation in faith and community. She later graduated from Grand Forks Central High School in 1955, carrying with her a strong work ethic, a warm spirit, and a determination that would define her throughout her life.

In 1958, Mary married the love of her life, Phillip Deraney. Together they built a marriage rooted in devotion, laughter, and shared adventure. Their partnership spanned decades and was marked by deep companionship and unwavering support for one another through all of life's seasons.

Mary and Phillip were devoted, lifelong members of St. Michael's Catholic Church. Their faith was an important part of their daily lives and guided the way they cared for others. Mary served faithfully as an Extraordinary Minister of Holy Communion, bringing comfort and connection to parishioners. She also generously gave her time helping with funeral meals, offering not only food but also compassion and presence to grieving families during difficult times.

Above all else, Mary's greatest joy was her family. She was immensely proud of her children, grandchildren, and extended family, and she never missed an opportunity to share their accomplishments with others. Her love was fierce, protective, and unconditional, and it was returned to her in equal measure. Family gatherings were filled with her laughter, her stories, and her unmistakable presence at the center of it all. Mary was an avid reader and loved to travel, especially to Las Vegas, with her husband, Phillip. They had a tremendous love of dancing every Saturday night at the Elk's Club, which was the highlight of their week.

Mary is survived by her daughters, Debra (Casey), Tamera (Lon), and Philline (Mohammed); her grandchildren Matt (Abigail), Nick (Jordan), Samantha, Sarah (Travis), Sultan, Sabrina, Thamer, and Zaid; and her great grandchildren Isabella, Max, Sloan, Maximus, Ava, and Kane. She was preceded in death by her parents, brothers, sisters-in-law, brothers-in-law, husband, Phillip, and daughter, Kimberly Deraney Bakken

Those who knew Mary often described her as feisty, spunky, or a "little spitfire," and while those words were certainly true, they only captured a small part of who she was. She was also deeply caring, quick-witted, and full of life. She had a strong personality and an even stronger heart, and she left a lasting impression on everyone she met.

Mary's life was one of faith, love, family, and joy. Her presence will be deeply missed, but her spirit will continue to live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved her.

Many thanks to Edgewood of Grand Forks, Hospice and Legacy Medical for their excellent loving care.

Memorials may be directed to St. Michael's Church, or St. Michael's Altar Society, 418 North 6th Street, Grand Forks, ND 58203.

Mass of Christian Burial : 11:00 a.m. Saturday, August 1, 2026, in St. Michael' s Catholic Church, Grand Forks, ND.
Visitation: One hour prior to the liturgy in the church on Saturday.
Burial: Calvary North Cemetery, Grand Forks, ND.