Kathleen Helen McCarthy

Kathleen Helen McCarthy died suddenly on February 20, 2018. She was born on February 23, 1945 in Queens, NY, to Mary Grady McCarthy and Matthew McCarthy. Her formative years were spent in Queens and maintained many childhood friendships.

Kathleen received her Bachelors Degree from St John’s University in 1967, where she subsequently received her Masters Degree. She was awarded a Doctorate of Education from Boston University in 1994.

Dr. McCarthy was a career educator specializing in elementary school education. She taught overseas with the Department of Defense School System (DODS) in Japan and Germany for 20+ years. She relished the adventure of teaching abroad where she travelled extensively and made many lifetime DODS friends.

Dr. McCarthy returned to the States in 1994 and taught at the Marymount School in Manhattan for 13 years before retiring and moving to Sarasota, Florida.

Kathleen’s retirement was full. She was an avid bridge player and enjoyed the challenge of accumulating master’s points. Participation in both her book clubs and appreciation of theater and ballet programs, and enthusiastic tennis playing kept her very busy.

Kathleen was predeceased by her beloved sister, Virginia McCarthy Fitzsimmons (Edward), and two brothers, Matthew McCarthy and Michael McCarthy. She is survived by her nieces, Maureen Fitzsimmons Murphy (Marty) of Boca Raton, FL, her niece Kathleen Fitzsimmons Miccio (Rich) of Holiday, FL, her niece MaryEllen Fitzsimmons Barbieri (Peter) of Eastchester, NY, nephew Edward Fitzsimmons (Mary Ann) of Coplay, PA, niece Stefanie McCarthy Lipsey (Michael) of Sea Cliff, NY, nephew Michael McCarthy (Raechel) of Long Island City, and niece Amy McCarthy Bush of Amherst, MA. She was also survived by her Grady cousins who were more like sisters.

Visitation will be held on Friday, February 23 from 2:00 to 6:00 pm at the Manasota Memorial Park and Funeral Home, 121 53rd Ave E, Bradenton. The funeral service will be held on Saturday, February 24 at Our Lady of the Angels Catholic Church, 12905 E State Road 70, Lakewood Ranch.