She was born in Lowell on April 30, 1942, daughter of the late Lyman R. Longeway and the late Marcelina L. (Hubbard) Dickey. She attended Lowell public schools.
Before her retirement, she was employed with Record Lane and Wang Laboratories, both of Lowell. She was an associate member of Blue Star Mothers of Massachusetts Chapter 1.
Mr. and Mrs. McKenzie enjoyed spending time with their grandchildren and also spent many hours together antiquing and beachcombing.
Mrs. McKenzie will be remembered as an independent, courageous, selfless and fearlessly protective person, characteristics that are in all of her grandchildren, family members said.
Besides her husband, she is survived by a daughter, Kelly S. Lyddy and husband Dennis, along with their three children, Patrick R., Taylor R., and Ashton B. Lyddy, all of Leominster; her son, Todd A. Therrien and wife Karen, who reside in Nashua along with their six children, Joshua, Mikaela, Jacob, Haleigh, Toby, and Ava; a brother and sister-in-law, Marvin and Shirley Longeway of Nashua. She also leaves her dearest friend of more than 20 years, Suzie Roberts of Lowell, who continues to be a pillar of strength to Mrs. McKenzie's family.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Pat
May 4, 2024
5/4/24
Well, we did it Grammy. Vic and I survived the first few years and now we're married. June will make 8 years since saying "I do", and July will be 18 years together.
We own a house now! I have a real garden, with with real raccoon problems, and even a firepit to relax by. We will be here for many years and are looking toward a relaxing future.
You are missed. Wish you got to see the house and the space we call home but I know you're there. I'm making an extra effort to have a garden that brings in the dragonflies. Maybe you'll visit. Give Suzie a squeeze for us.
Love always, Pat and Vic.
Patrick Lyddy
May 14, 2007
Grammy,
You were my light in life and my guide as you move on. I loved you more than I think you ever knew. In your memory, and so that others may read it, I'm including my poem that I read at your memorial. I kinda wish that I had said more that last night...but you already knew how I felt.
I will never forget your last words on this planet. I kissed your forehead and said I love you. You looked back at me with those pale green eyes and said "I love you more."
------------------
her eyes opened slowly,
like springtime leaves
after a long winter.
they searched for light and heat.
sun touched her skin,
soft and warm,
and filled her with life.
putting her hand to her face
she felt her cheeks.
they were cool and smooth.
she was amazed
and quickly brushed the blankets away
like thick dust off a shelf.
she looked down
and wiggled her painted toes,
smiled,
and put them on the floor.
she stood
and her satin gown flowed behind her.
she walked to the door and,
with a click,
it opened
and she stepped out into the day.
the air was crisp
and she breathed deep.
she filled her lungs
with cool sweetness.
she looked up
and saw the pale summer sky.
her toes sank into soft sand
and waves crashed nearby.
the scene was perfect.
taken from her fantasies
and wrapped around her
like a fresh towel
safe and secure.
all the pain that she could remember
was somehow erased.
she felt whole,
beautiful and young.
her heart beat strong
and her mind was clear.
this was the beginning.
her day. her perfect eternal day.
she felt at home.
she felt love.
she felt peace.
With all my heart, you will forever live on. With all my breath, I will speak my mind and your voice. With all my life, I will remember your grace and strength. I love you, Grammy.
Janice Dulemba
May 13, 2007
Dear Kelly and family,so sorry to hear about the loss of your mother.
Carole (Newell) Malarkey
May 11, 2007
Dear Kelley, She called me "Ca", I called her "Lee" and it all started when we were both 10. I don't have to tell you what an incredible person she was. Your write-up in the paper described her to a tee.
She came in and out of my life all these years, and it was as if we never missed a beat. Her love for you, Kevin, Dennis, Suzie and her grandchildren was unconditional. It was never really her we talked about, it was more you.. her loving family. My heart goes out to all of you. Her loss leaves a terrible void; but she also leaves wonderful memories. My heartfelt sympathy, Carole (Newell)
Glen and Helen Reynolds
May 11, 2007
Dear Lyddy's;
I was reading the entries about your mom, and I couldn't help but remember the time she came to visit you when we all lived in Texas, so many years ago. She was so sweet and funny. Wasn't that her first time flying? I remember that she was the same age as my older sister was at that time. She also collected roosters. Every time I see one I think of her! Isn't it funny the things we remember about people. Our love and prayers are with you! I know you miss her, but she is in such a wonderfully happy place!
Austin Lyddy
May 10, 2007
Dear Kelley,Dennis and family.
Seems like yesterday that Leanne and I spoke. It was always about you
Dennis, our shared grandchildren and how proud she was of every accomplishment. Her love for all of us is still there.
Teresa Ciccolini
May 10, 2007
Kelly and Family,
My condolences to you and your family during this most difficult time. Please know that you are all in my prayers.
Cheri (Lyddy) Stafford-Rogers
May 10, 2007
The end of Lee's time on earth did not extinguish the fire of her spirit. You live on, my friend, in the loves you left behind. For a wee little person you leave a great big space...With love and fond remembrance, Cheri & Jim Stafford-Rogers & Jill Curran
Rosemarie Annese
May 10, 2007
Dear Kelly & Family,
Independent, courageous, selfless and fearlessly protective are all traits clearly evident in each of you. Leanne will certainly live on in your hearts.
Bless you as you cope with this difficult loss.
My love to each of you,
Rose
Pat & Don Nichols
May 10, 2007
Dear Kelly, Dennis and Family,
My thoughts and prayers are with you in this very difficult time. It is so very hard to be without a mother. Call if you need me.
Love and Hugs
Bob & Angie Lyddy
May 10, 2007
Kelly
Our prayers go out to you on the loss of your Mother
Cathleen Carpenter
May 10, 2007
Our thoughts and prayers are with you all during this most difficult time.
DM Lyddy
May 10, 2007
Mom,
You made me promise to love and cherish your daughter BEFORE I said "I do." I gulped as I witnessed the intensity of a very protective mother, whose fearlessness cowered a 6'4" boy-man. I had to agree to a woman that exceeded her 4 foot 11 inch 110 pounds (soaking wet and with a handbag) frame. I never doubted that it would be me with spilled blood. I suspect if there is a way, you WILL come back to this planet and make good your promise. But, mom, I have to tell you, your finger tip on my nose, while standing on a chair, makes me laugh and smile.
I am going to miss you, Lee. Thank you for blessing me with your daughter Kelly. You are still alive through her and our three children. Your passion to live will NEVER die.
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