Maureen Danehy Cox, a beloved member of the New Haven community, has passed away suddenly due to complications from ALS. Her death marks the end of a life devoted to community, profession, and family. Maureen was a loving mother to Michael D. Cox and the loyal wife and best friend of Robert B. Cox for 43 years. She touched the lives of everyone who knew her with her kindness, wit, and warmth.
Early Life and Education
Born on May 9, 1954, in New Haven, Maureen was one of ten children of Benjamin and Rosalie Jones Danehy. Her large family instilled in her a strong sense of security, self-assurance, and a deep appreciation for familial bonds. She pursued her education at Sacred Heart Academy in Hamden and Our Lady of Victory in West Haven. Maureen excelled academically at the College of the Holy Cross, where she was among the first female students enrolled. She graduated magna cum laude and was a member of Phi Beta Kappa. She later graduated with honors from the University of Connecticut School of Law, contributing to the Law Review.
Professional Achievements
Maureen was known for her excellence and pioneering achievements in her legal career. She joined Carmody & Torrance, now Carmody, Torrance, Sandak & Hennessey, where she became a partner and an esteemed litigator. Recognized as one of Connecticut’s top women in litigation by Benchmark Litigation, she broke barriers as the first female president of both the Connecticut Defense Lawyers Association and a state chapter nationwide.
Her accolades included serving as an Attorney Trial Referee, being a James W. Cooper Fellow, and receiving numerous awards for leadership and advocacy. Maureen was also committed to mentoring female lawyers, earning her a place among Connecticut’s top women lawyers and a professional writing award for appellate advocacy.
Legacy and Impact
Maureen’s life was marked by a profound impact on everyone she encountered, from her family and friends to her professional colleagues. Her legacy of kindness, wit, and dedication will be remembered for years to come.
The obituary and funeral arrangements for Maureen Danehy Cox will be released at a later date.
