Kathryn J. Garvey

Kathryn Joan (Clifford) Garvey, 93, of Somerset, passed away peacefully on March 7th. Kathryn “Kay” was born in Fall River on April 21, 1923 to Dorothy (Lafferty) Clifford and John P. Clifford. A member of the BMC Durfee High School Class of 1940, she started work for the Feitelberg Agency at the age of 15 and, but for a few years when her children were young, worked there until retiring at the age of 65. A long time parishioner at St. Thomas More in Somerset, she was involved in the Bristol County Insurance Women’s Association and the Classy Ladies.

Kay’s life was illuminated by deep faith, strong family ties, and lifelong friendships. She believed that music was made for dancing and that there were no strangers – only friends she had not yet met. A person of style, warmth, and humor, and a gifted storyteller, she enjoyed sharing nearly a century of memories – including growing up during the Great Depression and dancing to the Big Bands in 1940s New York City – with family and friends. She was fond of dogs and took great pleasure and pride in her grandchildren’s company and accomplishments.

Kay is survived by her sons, Thomas J. Garvey and his spouse, Jill H. Garvey, of Fall River; and Gary C. Garvey and his spouse, Virginia S. Garvey, of Conover, NC; her grandchildren, Katlin A. Garvey and Joseph S. Garvey; her brother, Thomas T. Clifford of North Dighton, MA, and many nieces and nephews. She is preceded in death by her husband, Thomas Q. Garvey; her daughter, Kathryn J. Garvey; her sisters, Eileen M. O’Gara and Margaret L. Clifford; and her brother, John P. Clifford.

Her Funeral will be held on Saturday, March 11, 2017 at 8:30AM from the Waring-Sullivan Home of Memorial Tribute at Rose E. Sullivan, 866 County St., followed by a Funeral Mass at 9:30AM in the St. Margaret Mary Chapel at Catholic Memorial Home, 2446 Highland Ave., Fall River. Visiting hours Friday from 4:00 to 7:00PM. In lieu of flowers, donations in Kay’s honor may be made to the Faxon Animal Rescue League, 474 Durfee St., Fall River, MA 02720 or to Kindred Hospice, 275 Martine St., Suite 202, Fall River, MA 02720 and would be gratefully accepted. Burial in St. Patrick’s Cemetery, Fall River.