Photo courtesy of O'Brien Family Funeral Home & Cremation Services - South Hadley
South Hadley, Massachusetts
Sep 2, 1948 – Nov 5, 2024
Catherine A. MacKenzie, 76, passed away unexpectedly on Tuesday, November 5, 2024 at Holyoke Medical Center with family by her side. Born on September 2, 1948 to Genevieve (Wotanowicz) McGrath. Cathy grew up in South Hadley, graduating from South Hadley High School in 1966. She worked for many years at Hampshire National Bank before leaving the work-life to become a stay at home mother. She loved attending her weekly quilting class with her cousin JoAnne at Home Information in Holyoke, MA. Once her children became of school age, she returned to the work force as a paraprofessional in the South Hadley School system. Her kind, patient and understanding personality made her a favorite not only to the students, but to the many friends she worked alongside. Cathy retired in 2009 so she could care for her first-born granddaughter, Mackenzie, creating a bond that will last her a lifetime. Vacations in Maine, walking the Marginal Way with her friend Mary, playing board games, and eating pizza at Roberto’s restaurant were some of her favorite things to do and always put a smile on her face.
Catherine is predeceased by her high school sweetheart and love of her life, husband, Donald R. MacKenzie, who passed in 2021. She leaves behind her 2 children, Brian MacKenzie and wife Leslie of East Longmeadow, and Amy Smith and husband Matt of Chicopee, and three grandchildren Mackenzie and Asher Smith, and Scarlett MacKenzie whom were the light of her life. She also leaves behind her brother and sister in-laws Joan and Ken McKenna, Shirley and Ray MacKenzie and James O’Connell, along with many nieces and nephews.
Calling hours will be held for Catherine at O’Brien Family Funeral Home, 33 lamb St. S. Hadley, MA on Thursday, November 14th from 9-10:30 am. Following the calling hours, the funeral will be held at St. Patrick’s Church in South Hadley at 11am. Burial to follow in the Massachusetts Veteran’s Memorial Cemetery at 1pm. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Alzheimer’s Association at act.alz.org/donate. For more information, please visit obrienfamilyfh.com
Read MoreHappy Heavenly Birthday my friend and coworker Cathy. (9/2/26) You are missed dearly.
Carol Kelliher
August 27, 2025 | South Hadley, MA | Coworker
We are sorry for your loss. She was a fine lady and a good neighbor.
Pat and Gene Sullivan
November 14, 2024 | South Hadley, MA
Dear Amy & Brian, I am so sorry and saddened to hear of your mom´s passing. We shared many times working together and attending workshops together. She was always so kind and caring. She will be missed dearly. May your families find comfort in all of your memories of her today and always. With Deepest Sympathies, Carol Kelliher
Carol Kelliher
November 13, 2024 | Work
Our thoughts, prayers and love are with all of you. We are a but 10 steps away if you need anything. A beautiful lady who loved her family SO MUCH. Hugs and love.
Sue and Bob
November 12, 2024 | Friend
Brian and Amy, we are so sorry to hear of your mom´s passing. She was such a sweet lady. Aunt Sandy always loved spending time with her and loved their talks. Now I´m sure they are sharing again. Again we are sorry for your loss. Steve and Maura Bennett
Maura and Steve Bennett
November 12, 2024 | Other
My heart breaks for you all as I know all too well the hole left by the death of your mom, grandma. Although the Mikalchus clan will not be able to attend, we are there with you all in spirit.
Kerry Mikalchus
November 11, 2024 | Family
Brian and Amy we are so sorry for your loss.
Paul & Tracy Dubuc
November 11, 2024 | Family
As the days and weeks pass, and as you return to life's routine, may you continue to feel comforted by the love and support of family and
William Ryder
November 10, 2024 | Spfld, MA | Friend
A sweet friend from high school! Our sympathy to the entire family.
Glenn & Linda McCracken
Linda McCracken
November 10, 2024 | Bow, NH | Friend
