Kathleen S. Butler – age 87, beloved wife of the late Thomas Butler, passed peacefully on Friday, March 27, 2026.
Kathy was born on August 12, 1938 to the late William and Mary (O’Keefe) McClellan and was raised in Cambridge, Massachusetts alongside her sister, Marylou. In 1958, she married her husband, Thomas “Tommy”, before moving to Somerville where she was a longtime resident and chose to raise her family.
Kathy is remembered by all for her unwavering positivity, infectious smile, and for living life with the glass half full. She spent her life surrounded by family and friends. Kathy enjoyed spending the warmer months “up at camp” where she spent time with both family and friends, enjoying the sun, and winning at a game of Rummy. She was often found in the aisles of the Christmas Tree Shop and was an avid knitter and crocheter. Kathy treasured the time she spent visiting and sharing laughter with her sister on Cape Cod. Throughout her life, she dedicated her time to St. Catherine’s in Somerville where she lent a helping hand in organizing Bingo, and found joy in the years she spent volunteering with the colorguard. Kathy was a longtime employee at Sears & Roebuck as an Administrator and later, Foster-Miller Inc. prior to her retirement.
Kathy’s most important roles in life were as Ma, Nana, and Gigi. Each of which were titles she wore with pride and love. Kathy found joy in life’s simplest moments–celebrating every birthday, holiday, and accomplishment. She is survived by her daughters, Karen Reposa of Billerica, MA and Maureen Fitzsimmons of Wilmington, NC; her sons, Robert Butler of Epsom, NH and William Butler of Rochester, NH; her sister Marylou Wright of Falmouth, MA; her seven grandchildren, Kristen, Brooke, Tommy, Shannon, Caitlyn, Brittany, and Brianna; and her seven great-grandchildren.
Visiting hours will be held Wednesday, April 1 at the Sweeney Memorial Funeral Home, 66 Concord Rd., Billerica from 4-7 p.m. A Funeral Mass will be held Thursday at St. Catherine of Genoa Parish, 185 Summer St., Somerville at 11 a.m. Please meet at church. Her burial will take place at Woodlawn Cemetery in Everett. Memorial contributions may be made in her name to the Boston Children’s Hospital.
Previous Events
Visitation
1
Apr
66 Concord Road
Billerica, MA 01821
Funeral Mass
2
Apr
185 Summer St.
Somerville, MA 02143
Burial
2
Apr
302 Elm St.
Everett, MA 02149
