A devoted wife, mother and grandmother who had a passion for life
WAKEFIELD — Dorothy G. McCarthy, age 83, a former longtime resident of Wakefield, passed away on Saturday, April 2, 2022, peacefully surrounded by her family.
Dorothy (“Dot”) was born in Medford and was the daughter of James E. and Pearl I. Gray, and the sister of Joan Gray Chetwynd and Robert Gray (deceased). Raised in Charlestown, she graduated in the class of 1956 from Charlestown High School. She married Thomas Williams (deceased) and settled in Wakefield where they raised four children.
Dorothy became the beloved wife of Robert E. McCarthy in 1985 and with whom she shared 36 years of marriage living in the area and enjoying time in Maine and Florida until recently returning to live in Massachusetts.
In addition to her husband Robert, Dorothy is survived by her seven children including Cynthia Williams Oatis and husband David of Pennsylvania; Joan Williams List and husband Charles of New Hampshire; Bruce A. Williams of Florida; Nancy J. Williams of Arizona; Beverly Peters of New Hampshire; Audrey Hall of Massachusetts; Karen Gilson of New Hampshire; and Thomas McCarthy (deceased). She also leaves behind thirteen grandchildren, and three great-grandchildren.
Dot had a great passion for life. A devoted wife, she cherished her children and her grandchildren dearly. A talented quilter, she left us many beautiful pieces to remember her by. A deep love of the state of Maine began in her childhood on the beach in Ocean Park and expanded north to Flagstaff Lake in her later years. She loved church and was a long time member of the First Baptist Church of Wakefield. She enjoyed attending Sunday services, served as a deacon, lay reader, choir member, Sunday school teacher, and actively participated in fundraisers and activities. Her love of the lord continued wherever she settled throughout her life.
Dorothy was an active member in the Greenwood Juniors Women Club for many years and received the Massachusetts State Women’s Club, Mrs. Home Life Award, in 1971. She was also a long time member of the vocal group, The Timbertones, performing at various events and locations.
Arrangements: Her funeral service will be held at the First Baptist Church of Reading, 45 Woburn St, Reading, MA 01867, on Friday, April 8, 2022, at 3 p.m., with a reception to follow.
In lieu of flowers, charitable donations in Dorothy’s name may be made to the Alzheimer’s Association – https://www.alz.org.