Author Q&A: Maura McGee, ’92

After losing her husband, Maura (Farley) McGee, ’92, found herself navigating life as an unexpected single mother of six. What began as a private way to process unimaginable loss became a source of encouragement, inspiring her to share the story that carried her family through their darkest days. Her book, It Is What It Is: A Widow’s Journey of Seeking Solace Through Faith, Family, and Friends, reflects on loss, healing, and resilience.

Your book grew from private journal entries. Why did you decide to share them?

After losing my mom unexpectedly and my husband two years later, I often supported others through tough times. Everyone told me, “Maura, you should write a book.” I resisted for a long time but eventually took it as a sign to begin. My journal entries were random streams of consciousness that helped me process. By turning them into a story of my grief journey, I could write honestly about loss, raising six children through crisis, cancer, and learning to live after losing my high school sweetheart.

What kept you grounded during difficult moments?

Faith gave me something to lean on when everything else seemed to be falling apart. In the midst of crisis, a priest friend encouraged me to keep going through the motions—pray, go to Mass, and receive the sacraments. He reminded me that faith is strongest when you’re being carried.

How can we show up for others in meaningful ways?

It’s hard to know what to say or do when someone is in crisis. Most importantly, just be there. Show up, really listen, and share memories of the person who passed. Almost 15 years since my mom died, I still love when someone shares a story about her.

How did Loyola shape the way you lean on community?

Loyola’s motto, “Strong Truths Well Lived,” prepares students to face life’s challenges by using what they learn to help others. My family survived because of the love from our faith community, family, and friends. Sometimes in life it’s your time to help others, and sometimes it’s time to accept the gift of humility from the Holy Spirit so you can receive support.

What message do you hope readers take away?

My book doesn’t offer answers. I simply share our story and my grief journey, hoping to honor Dave’s suffering and help others feel less alone. The most heartwarming gift is hearing that my book brought readers comfort and that they shared it with a friend who needed it. We will all experience love and loss. I hope my story provides solace to those in pain, and ultimately, hope.

Bound by Hounds Booklist - Fall 2026

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