Photo courtesy of Walter J. Zalewski Funeral Home - 44th Street - Pittsburgh
Jul 10, 1947 - Nov 21, 2025
Such a nice, qualified and helpful teacher. I had Ms McGill the season of 69-70...graduation class of 1973
Perry High school
Ginette Dimbokowitz
November 26, 2025 | Pittsburgh, PA | Student
The world has lost a true light but I feel so blessed to have known Kathy while growing up. Many memories from years past visiting Pittsburgh and the amazing folk group at St. Lawrence. I still remember the songs Kathy taught me and still have the folk group song book she gave me decades ago. Ray and family, comhbhrón ó chroí libh. (My heartfelt condolences to all of you.). May God smile upon you Kathy and may His light ever shine upon you.
Ted Lloyd
November 26, 2025 | Bolton, CT | Friend
It seemed to us that Kathy brought happiness wherever she went. She had that gift. It started with her big, welcoming smile and open arms for a hug. We don't believe she ever met a stranger. Music was a big part of her joy, and she sang with a lusty delight that left us smiling. Beyond all, family was her priority. She was the mom (sister and grandma) we all want -- deeply caring and generous with herself and her time. She will be deeply missed, and we know that God's choir is ringing now...
Ken and Lyn Krynski
November 26, 2025 | Pittsburgh, PA | Friend
Ray, Kait and family, I am so sorry for your loss. Kathy was always so welcoming and fun when we would be together at all of the gatherings. She was a wonderful person and I know that you all have special memories that will remain in your hearts forever. My deepest sympathy to your whole family.
Becky Jackson
November 26, 2025 | North Huntingdon, PA | Friend
I am so sorry to hear of Kathy's passing. All I can say is what a great person she was and STILL IS in all of the hearts of everyone who met her. She had such a great personality. I ALWAYS enjoyed seeing her especially at those Masses that she and the folk group participated in at St. Lawerence O'Toole church in Garfield. Thank you Kathy for your grace and beautiful smile and love. Peace and may God raise you up on the Great Last Day.
Peace and Love,
Denny Kirk
Denny Kirk
November 25, 2025 | Pittsburgh, PA
Ray, Kait, and family Gary and I are very sad to hear of Kathy passing. We enjoyed being your neighbors in Mt Lebanon. Kathy was always bright and cheerful. I know she will be deeply missed.
Cheryl Gross
November 25, 2025 | Traverse City, MI | Neighbor
Grief can be so hard, but our special memories help us cope. Remembering you and your loved one today and always.
Philip & Donna Gallagher
November 25, 2025 | Pittsburgh, PA | Friend
Grief can be so hard, but our special memories help us cope. Remembering you and your loved one today and always. I have fond memories of Kathy from my years living in Pittsburgh with Kevin when my children were younger. She was a wonderful person and will be missed. Love from the Connecticut McGills
Jennifer McGill
November 25, 2025 | Gales Ferry, CT | Family
We send our love and sympathy to the McGill and Novak families on the death of Kathy. May the Angels carry her into Paradise.
Larry and Teresa Plutko
November 25, 2025 | Snoqualmie, WA | Friend
Kathleen “Kathy” McGill Novak, 78, of Mt. Lebanon, passed away peacefully on November 21, 2025, surrounded by her loving family.
Born on July 10, 1947, in the Garfield neighborhood of Pittsburgh to Raymond A. McGill Sr. and Mary C. Coyne. After losing her mother at a very young age, her stepmother, Ruth, later became a loving presence in the McGill family. Raised in a home centered on faith, music, and deep family ties, Kathy carried these values with her throughout her life.
Kathy devoted 38½ years to Pittsburgh Public Schools as a health and physical education teacher, where she inspired generations of students to pursue healthy, active lifestyles. Her kindness, encouragement, and bright spirit left a lasting impact on all who had the privilege of knowing her.
She is survived by her devoted husband, Raymond A. Novak, and her beloved children Kaitlin (Justin) Daley, Jesse (Angela) Novak, and Jordan Novak. She was the proud and cherished grandmother of Brady, Nolan, and Blair Daley, who were the light of her life.
Kathy is also survived by her siblings Mary Anne McGill, Raymond (Joannie) McGill Jr., Susan Megarry, and Michele (Gary) Acord, as well as several cousins and many close friends who treasured her warmth and generosity.
Known for her radiant smile and welcoming arms, Kathy loved traveling, singing, and spending time with family. She was a dedicated member of the former St. Lawrence O’Toole parish in Garfield, where she founded the folk group Sweet Rejoicing over 50 years ago—sharing her love of music and faith with her community.
Her legacy lives on in the countless lives she touched through her teaching, music, faith, and the joy she brought into the world.
Family and friends are invited to attend a Funeral Mass at St. Pio of Pietrelcina Parish, St. Augustine Church on Monday, December 1, 2025 at 11:30 a.m. Interment to follow at the National Cemetery of the Alleghenies.
In lieu of flowers - donations to the American Heart Association at www.heart.org
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