Catherine M. "Cathy" Ford

With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of Catherine M. "Cathy" Ford, who died unexpectedly on February 8, 2026, at the UMass Memorial Medical Center-University Campus in the comforting presence of her loving family. Cathy was 65 years old.

Cathy was a cherished daughter, sister, aunt, and friend who left an indelible mark on all who knew her. Born on September 14, 1960, in Worcester, MA, Cathy was the beloved daughter of the late Wesley C. Ford and Ruth C. (Pierce) Ford.

She was lovingly raised in Grafton, where she graduated from Grafton High School in 1978. Cathy's journey through life was marked by her unwavering dedication to her family. She worked for several years at Honeywell Inc., before finding her true fit at Raytheon, where she played an instrumental role in working on components for the Patriot Air and Missile Defense System. Her commitment to excellence and her contributions to national defense were a source of pride for her and her family until her retirement.

Cathy's life was a testament to the power of love and kindness. Known for her loving nature and concern for others, she built deep connections with her family and friends. Though she lived a private life, she was never alone, always surrounded by the warmth of her family and cherished friends.

She leaves behind her siblings, David Ford of Millbury, Joanne Dauphinais of North Grafton, Emily Ford of Grafton, and Teresa Dobson and her husband Dave of Auburn. Cathy also leaves behind a legacy of love in the hearts of her numerous nieces, nephews, grandnieces, and grandnephews. Cathy was predeceased by her parents, a sister Linda R. (Ford) Malboeuf, who passed in 2014, and two brothers-in-law, Roger Malboeuf and Vincent Dauphinais. Her family finds solace in the thought that they are now reunited in eternal peace.

A parishioner of Our Lady of Hope Parish (Saint Mary's Church) in Grafton, Cathy found strength and guidance in her faith. Her life was enriched by simple joys: watching tennis, shopping, and reveling in the beauty of nature. No matter where her adventures took her, she was always accompanied by her faithful four-legged friend, Banjo, who was her constant companion and source of joy.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations be made in Cathy's memory to NEADS Service Dogs, an organization close to her heart, at (https://neads.org/).

Cathy's warmth, love, and gentle spirit will be deeply missed but never forgotten. Her memory will live on in the hearts of all who were fortunate enough to know her. As we say goodbye, we remember Cathy not with sadness, but with gratitude for the beautiful life she lived and the love she shared.

In honoring Cathy's wishes, a private funeral service will be held to celebrate her life and legacy.