Karen Mary McCarthy, a lifelong resident of Weymouth, passed away surrounded by the love of her family, on Wednesday, April 1, 2026, at the South Shore Hospital in Weymouth. She was 83.

Karen was born on September 2, 1942, and was the daughter of the late John Joseph and Mary Roberta (McKenna) McCarthy. She was a proud graduate of Weymouth High School, Class of 1961. Karen carried with her throughout life a sharp intellect, a dry wit, and a wonderfully dark sense of humor that endeared her to everyone who knew her.

Karen had a deep love for music in all its forms. Her tastes were as wide-ranging as they were heartfelt, from the timeless rock of Led Zeppelin and Eric Clapton, to the traditional sounds of The Dubliners, the uplifting harmonies of the Mormon Tabernacle Choir, and the spirited melodies of Abba. Music was a constant companion in her life and a source of great joy.

For 31 years, Karen dedicated herself to her work as a technologist at South Shore Hospital, where she was respected for her knowledge, commitment, and professionalism. Alongside her career, she worked part-time at Great Woods in Mansfield, and later with Harbor Lights in Boston. She affectionately referred to these roles as her “fun jobs,” where she could take in concerts, enjoy the atmosphere, and earn a little “walking around money.”

Karen found her greatest happiness at home. She loved nothing more than sitting comfortably in her recliner, surrounded by her family, quietly taking in the moments that mattered most. Smiling, nodding, and enjoying the laughter and connection of multiple generations. To her family, she was simply “Grammy,” a title that extended beyond bloodlines. Anyone who knew her came to call her that, as Karen had a way of making everyone feel like family.

Karen was remarkably intelligent and maintained a sharp mind throughout her life. She credited her daily devotion to crossword puzzles, especially the famously challenging The New York Times crossword, for keeping her mentally agile. It was not uncommon for her to complete several puzzles a day with ease.

She also had a passion for travel and a deep connection to her Irish heritage. Karen made several meaningful trips to Ireland, particularly to her ancestral home in Killarney. One especially cherished memory was a trip to the breathtaking Cliffs of Moher with her son. In true family fashion, a moment of playful mischief, when her son sat at the edge of the cliffs, turned into a story filled with laughter that they would share for years. Karen also traveled to Japan to visit her daughter during her military service and enjoyed time in Cancún with friends. In keeping with her adventurous spirit, her family plans to scatter her cremated remains across the world, allowing her to rest in the many places she loved, and those she dreamed of visiting.

Karen believed food was love, and she had her favorites: fish and chips and vanilla cake with buttercream frosting. Famously, she was not a fan of vegetables, often responding with a polite but firm, “no, thank you!” when they appeared on her plate.

She had a fond appreciation for British television, always ensuring the BBC was part of her cable package. She especially loved murder mysteries, with her all-time favorite being Midsomer Murders, a show she watched countless times over the years.

For the past 13 years, Karen lived with her son, daughter-in-law, and their children, in a home filled with love, care, and mutual support. In many ways, it reflected the values she grew up with: family taking care of family, just as it was in the 1940s and 1950s. She cherished these years deeply.

Even as her lifestyle became simpler, Karen never lost her appreciation for beauty and the finer things. She delighted in watching her daughter-in-law model new outfits, enjoying each moment with a keen eye and a warm smile.

Karen’s favorite color was blue, a fitting reflection of her calm, steady presence. She will be remembered for her intelligence, her humor, her independence, and above all, her deep and abiding love for her family.

She leaves behind a legacy of laughter, resilience, and unconditional love, a true “Grammy” to all who were fortunate enough to know her.

Karen was the devoted mother of Daniel Maloney and his wife Stacey of Weymouth, and Katherine “Kate” Conway and her husband Geoffrey of Arizona. She was the loving grandmother of Lars, Lee, Jack, Jonathan, Eamon, Carys, and Leland. Karen was the dear sister of John McCarthy and his wife Patricia of Naples, Florida, and the late Michael McCarthy, who died in 1995. She is also survived by many loving great grandchildren, nieces, nephews, cousins, extended family and friends.

Following cremation, Karen’s funeral services will be held privately.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be sent in Karen’s name to the charitable organization of one’s choice.