BELLE HARBOR — For nearly five decades, Mary Murray has watched over the same corner with a stop sign in one hand and, often, rosary beads close by — guiding generations of students safely across the street and bringing quiet faith to a job she came to love.

On June 24, students and teachers from The Belle Harbor School (P.S./M.S. 114) honored the 89-year-old crossing guard with a small parade to the street corner she has steadfastly guarded for 48 years.

Murray, who retired at the end of the school year, said the parade was something she never expected — especially seeing the students carrying signs bearing her name and face, and receiving an award from the school’s principal.

“It’s emotional, it really is,” she said, fighting tears, and noting that crossing guard work is an occupation “you come to love.”

During the parade, Belle Harbor School Principal Jonathan Halfmann gifted Murray with a plaque and a bouquet of flowers and thanked everyone for coming to celebrate “such a wonderful and amazing crossing guard.”

Halfmann has been principal for only one year, but has been a part of the school community for at least 20 years. He said over the years he has come to know Murray as someone who can “light up” the community’s day.

“She knows the kids by name. She’s been a staple to the community in supporting us and crossing kids safely each and every day,” Halfmann said. “It doesn’t matter the weather conditions, her health. She’s here for the kids, and that’s what’s so remarkable.”

Seventh grader Megan Willson, who arrived at Belle Harbor School a year ago, said Murray made a fast impression as a “very kind and supportive person.”

“She’s always there making sure we get home safely,” she said. “Always asking us how our day has been.”

Murray’s daughter, Maureen Murray, said the strength and endurance her mother brings to the corner each day are brought to all facets of her life. And when it came to celebrating 48 years of service, she said her mother deserved every bit of it.

“She’s got more merits in heaven than,” she said before pausing. “I can’t even think of how many points she’s earned.”
She recalled one moment in particular that showed her mother’s dedication to her responsibilities as a crossing guard.

“The doctor asked, ‘How did you walk on a broken leg?’ She said, ‘I had to get to the corner.’ And that was it,” Maureen said. “There’s no pain she can’t walk through.”

Murray is also known as a fixture at daily Mass at St. Francis de Sales Church in Belle Harbor. Whether it be before her shift, afterward, or sometimes both, she is always there to meet with her band of “pew buddies” — a crew she’s been loyal to for five years.

“If there were three of us, you would mind my spot so I would sit in the same spot,” Murray said. “It’s really nice — 8 a.m. Mass on Sunday morning, you’d meet, and when you leave, it’s ‘have a great week and all that stuff.’ ”

Beyond Mass, Murray brings her faith with her to the office each day. She always has rosary beads when guarding the corner of Beach 134th Street and Cronston Avenue in Belle Harbor.

“You keep your hands in your pockets, so you might as well say your [rosary].”

As for retirement, Murray plans to remain active.

“I have seven children, 12 grandchildren, and a great-grandchild due in October,” Murray explained, “so I will be busy.”