Sally Campbell

Sally Kimball Campbell—known lovingly as “Mustang Sally,” “our gal Sal,” Mom, and Nana—was the embodiment of warmth, joy, and the classic yellow smiley face. A natural cheerleader for her family and a loyal friend to so many, Sally had a rare gift for making everyone feel like they belonged.

Born to Bernice Aillery Kimball and William Kimball, Sally grew up in Winchester with her siblings Marsha Kimball and Richard Kimball (Mary). She graduated from Winchester High School and went on to earn her associate degree from Colby Junior College.

Sally met the love of her life, Thomas Campbell III, in Boston, where their apartments on Marlborough Street happened to be just one floor apart. Together they built a life that took them from California back to Massachusetts, eventually settling in Acton.

Her first job was with AT&T, but her greatest role—by far—was raising her three children: Susan Campbell Linnell (Bob Butcher), Karen Campbell Murdoch (Dave), and Thomas Campbell IV. Sally’s home was always open, and she embraced not only her children but their many friends as her own. She was a devoted Nana to Kelsie and Brooke Linnell, Regan Murdoch, and Fin and Lucy Campbell, Aunt to Allycia Kimball and a proud great-grandmother to Ocean Hillman.

Sally was a constant presence on the sidelines—at softball, field hockey, and soccer games—and later at ski races, where she found her niche in the timing and announcement shack, adding her own lively commentary. Summers were her happy place, especially on Ogunquit Beach in Maine, where she could be found under a floppy hat with a book, a Fresca in hand, and lunch ready for anyone who needed it.

Professionally, Sally served as a librarian at The Hale School in Stow, Massachusetts, and worked with the Acton-Boxborough Community Education Department. She was especially proud of her time on the Acton-Boxborough School Committee, where her deep connection to the community was evident—she seemed to know everyone, and her children quickly learned there was no getting away with anything.

Later in life, Sally and Tom followed their two oldest children to Chatham, Massachusetts. There, Sally continued her community involvement and worked several summers at Tommy Dixon Collections. She delighted in attending her grandchildren’s sporting events and stage performances, cheering them on with the same enthusiasm she brought to everything she did.

Sally’s kindness and love were boundless. Her hugs were unforgettable—warm, generous, and all-encompassing. She took a genuine interest in everyone she met, always wanting to know what people were up to. So if you ever feel someone peeking over your shoulder, curious and caring, it just might be Sally.

She will be deeply missed and forever remembered. Please join us on May 16 at 11 at the First Congregational Church of Chatham. Reception at the VFW in Chatham to follow. Please consider wearing bright colors: her favorite color being yellow! In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Women of Fishing Families in Chatham or the Marginal Way Fund in Ogunquit, ME.