Judith Anne McCarthy

Brewster, MA – Judith (Judy) Anne McCarthy, 78, formerly of Weymouth, MA, passed away at home on August 23, 2020, surrounded by her devoted family and friends. She is survived by her loving wife, Suzanne (Sue) Kenney, her sister-in-laws, Celeste Maiello and Rosemarie Lavin (William), multiple generations of nieces and nephews, and her very best and oldest friends, Octavia Ossola and Elizabeth Gordon. Judy adored her mother, Doris Grace McCarthy, who preceded Judy in death nine years ago. Her father, James McCarthy passed when she was a child.

For over forty years, Judy dedicated her career to the betterment of children and youth in Massachusetts’s child welfare system. She worked first at New England Home and then at Communities for People. Judy had a bachelor’s and a master’s degree in Public Affairs from the University of Massachusetts. Judy worked tirelessly to create optimal supports and pathways for the youth she served, always compassionate and creative in her approach. As an exemplary female leader she served as a mentor to her staff, many who stayed in touch with Judy long after her retirement and came to bid their farewells and express appreciation one last time in her final days.

Judy was a loyal friend, a devoted wife, a wise aunt and family member, and an inspiration to all. Her friends were many, and because she was an avid golfer, they could be divided into those who loved the sport and those who thought it was a waste of a long walk. Either way, she embraced each person for who they were, happy to give her straightforward (some would say blunt) advice whether or not you knew a par-3 from a parboil. Her words were truthful, heartfelt, and often hilarious. Judy had the gift of hard-won humor, never taking anyone or anything in her life for granted, offering laughter as a comfort for the soul.

With a passion for travel, Judy criss-crossed the country three times, rode horses at dude ranches, camped at National Parks and all along the east coast, and later with her wife Sue, traveled to Russia, China and Europe. She loved meeting people on her adventures, continuously talking to fellow travelers and making friends along the way. In her retirement she became a fantastic cook, inviting friends to annual barbeques and holiday parties.

Judy was always reading a book and particularly, loved to read history. She enjoyed spirited conversation about social justice and was disappointed that we never seemed to learn lessons from the past. She was very upset that she would not be able to cast her vote in the upcoming national election.

Judy’s life with Sue was remarkable. While they were two very different people – Judy had more patience and Sue did not like to golf – they shared the same values. They always saw the good in people, loved their dogs, and both felt it didn’t really matter if they were planning their next travel destination or their next meal, as long as they were together. They shared 34 extraordinary years.

Anyone who knew Judy, even for a short time, was not surprised that she battled cancer fiercely over its 5-year course. Her strength and her gratitude were an inspiration to those around her as she fought the dreaded disease. She did so with true grit and determination, continuing to live her life fully by swimming, reading, puzzle making, Patriot watching, and of course more golf, more travel, more discussions with friends about politics.

The greatest gift Judy gave to her friends and family was simply the example of how she lived her life. She lived without regrets, with great humor, never trying to control things she could not, and living each day fully with an open heart. After Dr. Kim, who Judy loved and trusted throughout her treatment, said she would not win the final battle, Judy accepted it with grace.

Judy – generous of heart, so thoughtful, so strong. Thank you for letting us know you and for loving us. We miss you dearly.

For those who would like and in lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Tufts Medical Center, Mary’s Fund, to help families defer the cost of cancer care. Thank you!

For online condolences, please visit www.doanebealamesdennis.com.