Regina Mary (Cronin) Dugan

REGINA MARY (CRONIN) DUGAN

It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Regina Mary (Cronin) Dugan at the age of 69, following a courageous battle with cancer. Regina was a devoted wife to her husband, Steve, with whom she shared 49 wonderful years of marriage, having been introduced on a blind date that blossomed into a lifelong partnership. 

Family was the cornerstone of Regina's life. She took immense pride in raising her two successful sons, Jeremiah (Lori) and Jason (Kelly). However, it was her grandchildren—Elizabeth, Sarah, Brady, and Maura—who filled her heart with unparalleled joy. Many cherished days were spent strolling to Brookline Boulevard, where she would stop at the library to instill in them a lifelong love of reading. As her grandchildren grew, she embraced her role as a devoted dog grandmother to Meatball, sharing affection with every wagging tail. 

Regina was a lifelong resident of Brookline, growing up in the home where her grandparents settled after immigrating from Ireland. A proud graduate of Elizabeth Seton High School in 1973, she was a pioneer in women’s basketball, playing during a time when opportunities for female athletes were limited. She not only played but also coached women’s basketball at Resurrection and Loreto, while also enjoying recreational softball.

Entering the workforce in the 1970s, Regina faced the challenges that many women of her generation encountered. Despite the prevailing attitudes towards working women, she persevered, even enduring the indignity of being moved to a basement office while pregnant, hidden from view. Regina held various roles during her career, always advocating fiercely for workers' rights and equality. Her commitment to justice and fairness led to her election as a Democratic Committee woman, where she was known for her courage in speaking truth to power.

Regina found joy in celebrating her Irish heritage, particularly on St. Patrick’s Day, and cherished moments spent indulging in garage sales and beach vacations at the Outer Banks. 

Regina had a gift for cultivating relationships with her many friends and was the coordinator of so many cherished family memories. 

As we remember Regina, let us raise a glass of Jameson Whiskey and say "Sláinte" to a life beautifully lived.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to the American Cancer Society at https://www.cancer.org/. 

Friends and family shall gather to celebrate her life on Thursday, August 8, 2024 from 4pm until the 8pm service at Ball Funeral Chapel, Inc., 600 Dunster St., Pittsburgh, PA 15226.

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