WESTFIELD – This Friday, Westfield’s St. Patrick’s Parade Colleen will be crowned during a gala event at Chez Josef, and Westfield Parade Grand Marshal Lisa G. McMahon will receive her shillelagh.
On Friday, McMahon will be officially announced as leader of Westfield’s contingent to the Holyoke St. Patrick’s Parade, set for Sunday, March 18. However, McMahon was asked to preside over the marchers two weeks ago by last year’s marshal, Richard K. Sullivan, Jr.
“I am honored,” said McMahon. “I was so surprised.”
McMahon is, of course, of Irish descent on her father’s side. With the maiden name Healey, McMahon grew up knowing her Irish heritage. However, she also grew up with an Italian mother and said she was “well aware” of both sides.
As a girl, McMahon took Irish step dancing and danced at Irish festivals, parties and more.
“It was fun,” she said. “If I had a daughter I would have had her take Irish dancing.”
McMahon married her husband Tom and raised their two sons in Westfield with both Irish and Italian influences. Tom is a member of the Sons of Erin and McMahon said knowing the field of candidates the committee could have chosen makes her even more thrilled to serve as marshal.
“I’m looking forward to all the events I get to attend,” said McMahon. “The first is the Colleen Ball and there’s Irish Night at the Sons, the Love In, and of course the parade.”
McMahon is executive director of the Westfield Business Improvement District, a board member of Westfield on Weekends and a member of the Kiwanis Club.
