Etta Marie McCarthy

Etta Marie McCarthy, 76, of Spencer, passed away peacefully at home on Wednesday, January15, 2025, surrounded by her loving family.

 Born on March 8, 1948, in Worcester, she was the daughter of the late Robert E. and Mary A.(Papagni) Holley. Etta was married to the love of her life, Kevin Thomas McCarthy, on September 17, 1970, and they shared 54 wonderful years together.

 Etta graduated from North High School in Worcester and went on to earn her bachelor’s degree in education from Anna Maria College in Paxton. She had a successful career in marketing communications, working with several technology startup companies and nonprofits.

 Etta cherished her life by the lake, often saying it felt like a permanent vacation. She enjoyed reading by the water, sewing, traveling, and most importantly, spending time with her beloved husband Kevin, their children, and grandchildren. Family was the center of her life, and no one came before them in her heart.

 Etta is survived by her devoted husband, Kevin McCarthy; her daughter, Timalyn Rassias of Acton; her son, Matthew McCarthy, and his wife, Melina of Spencer; and six grandchildren: Samantha Rassias of Winchendon, Alexandra Rassias, and Lucas Rassias of Acton, and Sarah McCarthy, Ryan McCarthy, and Jessica McCarthy of Spencer. She also leaves her siblings, William Holley and his wife, Kerry of Shrewsbury, and Patricia Halvorsen and her husband, David, of Boynton Beach, Florida, as well as many nieces, nephews, and cousins.

 Family and friends are invited to honor Etta at calling hours on Friday, January 24, from 4 PM to 7 PM at Mercadante Funeral Home & Chapel, 370 Plantation St., Worcester. A funeral service will be celebrated the following day, Saturday, January 25, at 10 AM in the funeral home. Burial will follow at St. John Mausoleum and Cemetery in Worcester. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made in Etta’s memory to the American Cancer Society or the Why Me & Sherry’s House Foundation.