Mary Theresa Backman, age 91, formerly of Ann Arbor, Michigan, passed away on Sunday, August 2, 2020, in Largo, Florida with her daughter at her side.
Mary was born on April 2, 1929 in the United Kingdom to parents William and Molly (McManus) Rooney and was raised in County Mayo, Ireland with her brother, Jimmy. During her early twenties Mary decided to embark on a journey to America to seek new opportunities for herself and moved to Dearborn, Michigan where she lived with her aunt and uncle. While working at a local doctor's office in Dearborn, Mary met Ellsworth James Backman. The two married in 1962 and started their home together in Southfield, Michigan. After ten years the family decided to move once more to Ann Arbor, Michigan where they would stay for almost 40 years. It was here, in Ann Arbor, that they raised their daughter, Maureen. The Backman’s were members of Old St. Patrick Catholic Church since they relocated to Ann Arbor in 1973 and had many fond memories of their time spent with other parishioners. After Ellsworth retired, the two would spend winter in Florida where they would enjoy gardening and time with friends. In 2012, Ellsworth passed away just months after celebrating 50 years of marriage. Mary, always being true to her independent nature, moved to Florida permanently in 2016 to enjoy warm summer weather year round. She spent her time enjoying long walks on the beach and participating in exercise classes.
Mary is survived by her daughter, Maureen (Terry Davis) McWilliams; her grandchildren, Kerri McWilliams and Timmy Davis; and several nieces and nephews.
She was predeceased by her husband, Ellsworth James Backman; her parents, William and Molly Rooney; and her brother, Jimmy Rooney.
A funeral mass will be held on Tuesday, August 11, 2020 at Old St. Patrick Catholic Church, 5671 Whitmore Lake Rd, Ann Arbor, 48105, at 11:00 am. Friends and family are welcome to gather at the church at 10:30 am. Burial will follow at Old St. Patrick Catholic Cemetery of Ann Arbor. Please remember to wear a mask, as it is required to enter the church, and practice social distancing while in attendance.
In honor of Mary’s love for animals, memorial contributions can be made in her name to the Humane Society of Huron Valley, 3100 Cherry Hill Road, Ann Arbor, MI 48105, or the Michigan Humane Society, 30300 Telegraph Road, Suite 200, Bingham Farms, MI 48025.