Cheryl McCarthy

Cheryl McCarthy, 66, of Byfield, MA, passed away on Thursday, February 8th, 2024, after a courageous battle against multiple illnesses.
Born in Gloucester, MA, on February 28th, 1957, Cheryl was the daughter of the late John and Helen (MacArthur) McCarthy. She was the oldest of five siblings, a role that would inspire a lifetime of mentorship and leadership roles in many organizations.
A graduate of the Gloucester High School class of 1975, Cheryl's love of politics blossomed while running for class office, as well as helping with local campaigns. She was always a strong supporter of standing up and fighting for what you believe in- a mantra she carried throughout her life.
While living in Gloucester, Cheryl met her husband of 38 years, Michael. As the family expanded, they outgrew their small apartment in Lanesville and moved to Byfield, where Michael built the home of her dreams by the woods.
A home healthcare professional for many years, Cheryl often worked long hours on nights and weekends to devote her full attention to homeschooling her 3 youngest children during the week. She would proudly tell anyone that being a mother was her greatest joy in life, and this joy only expanded when her eldest daughter, Jenn, gave her three grandchildren.
Cheryl had an undying love for learning her entire life, and made many dear friends through the numerous clubs and guilds she eagerly participated in. She was an avid knitter, and particularly enjoyed knitting garments for her family and friends. If there was a baby on the way, Cheryl would be straight to work knitting something special. She participated in many handspinning groups, holding leadership positions in the New Hampshire Spinners & Dyers Guild as well as the Northeast Handspinners Association. Cheryl was a member of the Newbury Garden Club, President of the Board of the Northshore Youth Symphony Orchestra, and a 4-H club leader for many years. As a devoted reader, she participated in book clubs and was a trustee for the town library. She enjoyed genealogy and was always excited to share new findings with family. She loved nature, and cherished the family camping trips she planned annually for over 20 years. When not outside enjoying nature, Cheryl could often be found in her kitchen. She especially enjoyed hosting family events, where many dishes, such as her croissants, chocolate cake, and Caesar salad, were found. Her attention to detail within the culinary arts never failed to impress, and she felt a great importance in having the next generation alongside her, learning skills to keep family traditions alive.
Cheryl admired animals, great and small. She had a special place in her heart for Siamese cats and owned many over the years. One of her life goals came to fruition in March of 2023 when her Siamese cats had a litter of kittens. Cheryl was in her glory watching the kittens grow and play.
Although Cheryl lived in Byfield for the remainder of her life, some of her favorite days were spent back in Gloucester with family on Good Harbor Beach. Often staying until after sunset, these marathon beach days were best when capped off by getting pizza with family before heading home in her beloved Saab convertible.
Cheryl is survived by her husband Michael Bowling; daughter Jennifer, wife of Thomas Fernandes; son Patrick Bowling; son Tomas Bowling; daughter Meghan Bowling; sister Susan, wife of David Conaway; brother Kevin, husband of Martha McCarthy; sister Linda, wife of Robert Callahan; sister Laura, wife of Gregory Osmond; grandchildren Jack, Katie, and Sarah Fernandes; aunt Laura Silva; her Siamese cats Lagertha, Ragnar, Bjorn, Gyda, and Floki; as well as many beloved extended family members.
Honoring her wishes, burial will be private.
Arrangements by Greely Funeral Home, 212 Washington Street, Gloucester.
For online condolences, please visit www.greelyfuneralhome.com