Ann Alfano McGowan

Ann Alfano McGowan was truly a Rennaissance woman, balancing her roles as daughter, sister, mother, wife, friend and educator seemingly without effort.

Born Ann Alfano in New Brighton, Mrs. McGowan spent most of her childhood years in Mariners Harbor.

She attended PS 44 where the late principal Al Quin encouraged Annie's love of learning .

A 1970 graduate of Port Richmond High School, Ann attended SICC and received her Bachelor's Degree from Richmond College. During her high school and college years she worked at Major's Department Store in Mariners Harbor .

Mrs. McGowan also worked at Willowbrook State School and with United Cerebral Palsy Foundation.

She earned her Master's Degree in Reading from St. John's University while embarking on her teaching career with the New York City Board of Education.

A long time Special Education teacher at PS 10 in Brooklyn, Mrs. McGowan transferred to PS 53 in Bay Terrace in the early 2000's. Ann was named one of State Senator Lanza's Teachers of the Year shortly before her retirement in 2009 .

Mrs. McGowan and her brother Vincent were the prime caregivers for their mother, Frances Alfano, who passed away in December 2020 at the age of 103.

She was the proud parent of Matthew McGowan . Matt is following in his mother's Special Education footsteps and is currently a para professional at the Hungerford School in Stapleton .

Ann cherished her many friendships. Long evening phone calls with her friends were legendary.

Married in 1991 to Marty McGowan, they have been West Brighton residents since shortly after their marriage .

In addition to Mr. McGowan, her brother and son, Ann is survived by her brother Salvatore Alfano ( Vivian) of Centerville , VA

and their children Marc and Melissa Alfano Bezet.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a contribution in Annie’s name to the Notre Dame Club of Staten Island’s Bread of Life Drive, The Christopher Whitehouse Foundation, Tunnel2Towers, or the Charity of your choice.