Kathleen Marie Walsh

Kathleen Marie Walsh (Nee McLaughlin), a beloved mother, grandmother, wife, sister and friend, passed away peacefully due to complications from a stroke on May 9, 2024, at her home in Hideaway Beach on Marco Island. She is survived by her children, William Joseph Walsh Jr, John Paul Walsh, and Kelly Ann Walsh Freitas, granddaughter Alexa Freitas and sisters, Bernardin McLaughlin, Agnetta McCann and brother, John McLaughlin.

Kathleen (Kathy) was born on August 22, 1939, in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania to Terrence McLaughlin and Agnetta McCann McLaughlin. She was a proud Philadelphian, having attended Saint Athanasius grade school and graduated High School from Mount Saint Joseph Academy in 1957. After graduation, Kathleen proudly went to work in the office of a non-profit dentistry and then moved on to the secretary / typing pool at Bell Telephone.

In 1963, Kathleen married the love of her life, William Walsh, after they met at a bowling alley not far from her childhood home on Cheltenham Ave. Together, they raised their three children and were blessed with 1 grandchild; Alexa. Kathleen was one of the original soccer moms running the 3 kids to practices all over town. Granddaughter, Alexa Freitas, brought immense joy to her later years.

Kathleen's love for the youth in her community was evident in her involvement as a Cub Scout Den mother and later with the Girl Scouts. She continued caring for the children of Foxborough by supporting the career center at the High School. She later followed that up with a career as an administrative assistant to the principal in the High School office.

Upon retirement, Kathleen and Bill moved to Marco Island, FL and enjoyed their well earned later years. Kathleen enjoyed her time in Paradise and became an avid Bridge and Mah Jongg player and spent many days with friends counting her nickels to determine if she was a winner or loser; though she was always a winner in those games.

Kathleen's life will be celebrated with funeral services at 10 am Tuesday, May 28th at San Marco Catholic Church. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to the American Stroke Foundation in honor of Kathleen's battle with her stroke and recovery.

In her own words, Kathleen was blessed. It was amazing to see her feel that way even after her stroke and impairment. She never seemed to get down about her condition and was always cheerful and great to be around. All her nurses and aides were so grateful for her cheerfulness and positive outlook on life. She had two big wishes; to be back at her home on Marco Island and to have all three children and granddaughter together with her one last time. Thankfully, both wishes were granted before she passed peacefully at home.

Rest in peace, Kathleen as your memory will forever be a blessing to those you met.