Marie Therese Walsh

Marie Therese (Barca) Walsh passed away peacefully at home in Hyannisport on Friday, April 17, in the loving care of her family. A long-time Centerville resident, she was just a few weeks shy of her 90th birthday.

Born to John Joseph Barca and Mary Therese Barca in Boston, MA, Marie was the fourth of eight children. Despite early loss and adversity, Marie rose above any challenges and obstacles.

Marie and her family ultimately settled in Roslindale after several years following her mother’s death. She graduated from Roslindale High School, and not long after met Edmund J. Walsh at a dance. They married and lived in Dedham before moving their four girls to Cape Cod in 1967. Marie and Ed were married for over 60 years before his passing in 2022.

She was a woman of remarkable strength, grace and compassion. Throughout her life, Marie carved a path filled with success in business, love and devotion to family and faith, as well as a deep sense of giving back to those in need.

Marie had an infectious personality, great sense of humor and wit. The combination helped her excel in sales, whether in her early years selling Avon products or establishing a well-respected real estate office she owned from 1973 to 2005, Walsh Realty. It was a fixture for many years on West Main Street across from the former Angelo’s Market in Hyannis. Marie was a true pioneer and trailblazer in Cape Cod Real Estate, embracing technology early and paving the way for others.

During her distinguished career as a Realtor with multiple accreditations, Marie served on the board of the Cape and Islands Association of Realtors, including a term as president. Among the many recognitions she received for her contributions to the business community, none meant more than being honored as the Realtor of the Year in 1990.

She and Ed, along with their four daughters, ran Walsh’s Guest House on Craigville Beach Road in Centerville, where they welcomed repeat guests for over a decade. It was a family affair, and everyone played a part in its success with Marie at the helm.

In addition, she found time to support and take the lead with several charitable organizations, including the Kiwanis Club, raising funds for Special Olympics and Last Gasp bike ride. Marie and Ed, who were longtime members of the Hyannisport Club, both helped organize and run the first golf tournament for what was then Cape Cod Hospital. Marie also served on the Ladies Guild at Our Lady of Victory Church, was a member of the Women’s 9-Hole League at the Hyannisport Club, and an ace partner in the club’s Bridge league. She also enjoyed spending time with her mermaids swimming group and yoga buddies.

Marie especially loved being with her family, whether it was enjoying a day at Craigville Beach Association, making frequent family trips to the Bahamas, traveling with her sisters, or whatever adventure was in store, including a casino. She spoke many times of her trip to Sicily as a highlight of her life, able to trace her Italian heritage which was of great interest to her. Even in her later years, she never lost her energy or interest in getting dressed up for the next outing.

Marie is survived by her four devoted daughters: Jeanne Walsh of Hyannisport; Catherine Conley (Matthew) of Hyannisport; Kelly Skala (Mark) of Hyannis; and Sally Walsh (Timothy) of Marshfield. She was a cherished grandmother to Matthew Lister of Hyannisport; Kati Shanley (Ryan) of Plymouth; Jay Conley (Hannah) of Plymouth; Conor O’Brien of Centerville ; Griffin O’Brien of Southampton, NY; Ryan Walsh (fiancé Erica Strickland) of Waltham, Hayley Walsh of Marshfield, and step-grandson Daniel Skala (fiancé Morgan Bentivegna) of Charleston, SC. Marie was great grandmother to her precious little ones, Ethan and Noah Shanley, and Maeve Marie Conley. She is also survived by her loving sister, Jeanne Upton (John) of Osterville. She also leaves behind her sister-in-law Patsy Loschiavo of Sagamore Beach. She was a beloved aunt to many adored nieces and nephews. She had a special affection for the family Yorkies, Teddie and Lulu.

In addition to her parents and husband, Marie was pre-deceased by her siblings: Sally Pessa, Joseph Barca, Joanne Dietrick, Frances Tracy, Guy Barca, and Dennis Barca.

Services for Marie will take place on Friday, May 8, from 4-7 p.m. at Doane, Beal and Ames Funeral Home at 160 West Main St., Hyannis. A Mass of Christian Burial will be Saturday, May 9, at 1 p.m. at Our Lady of Victory Church, 230 South Main St., Centerville. A celebration of life will follow.

The family would like to acknowledge with deep gratitude the support and care Marie received from Hospice of Cape Cod. They were true angels.

In lieu of flowers, please consider donating in Marie's memory to the Cape and Islands United Way, P.O Box 2161 Hyannis MA 02601.