Kathleen Ackerman McCarthy

In Loving Memory of Kathleen Ackerman McCarthy
May 12, 1942 – September 22, 2025

With deep love, we celebrate the life of our mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, sister, cousin, and friend, Kathleen (Kathy) Ackerman McCarthy, who passed away peacefully surrounded by her family on September 22, 2025, at the age of 83.

Born in Camden, NJ, on May 12, 1942, Kathleen was the daughter of William H. Ackerman II and Katherine G. Ackerman. She grew up in Collingswood, attending St. Mary's of the Angels Academy, in Haddonfield and later graduated from Cabrini College, Radnor PA.

She was predeceased by her brothers, William H. Ackerman III and Richard Ackerman. She is survived by her sister, Mary Elizabeth (Beth) Ackerman Eichlin of Moorestown, NJ, her cousin, Carol Widua Flanagan of Stone Harbor, NJ, and her sister-in-law Marie Ward Ackerman of Cherry Hill, NJ; her children: Christine McCarthy of Northfield, NJ; Elizabeth McCarthy and husband Peter Zaknich of Merchantville, NJ; and Robert McCarthy of Milford, CT. She was a beloved grandmother to Kevin Kehs (Amanda Forslund), Brian Kehs, Emily Kehs, and Peter Michael Zaknich, and great-grandmother to Greyson Kehs.

Kathleen was known for her warmth, wit, and the joy she brought to every gathering. She will be remembered for her devotion to family, her quick sense of humor, and her ability to make everyone feel welcome. As the oldest of four, she was a guiding presence for her sister Beth, who always looked up to her. Over the years, she especially cherished the time Beth spent with her nieces and nephew.

She adored her cousin Carol, and their travels together always led to hysterical stories-usually with a glass (or three) of wine. The bridge club ladies held a special place in her heart, as many of them had been part of her life since childhood. Kathy never was one to miss a chance to remind her kids that she was the matriarch, she happily declared she could say and do whatever she pleased-usually earning a round of eye rolls and plenty of muttered comments under their breath. She especially delighted in her playful bantering with her son-in-law Peter, which kept everyone on their toes.

Her passion for cooking inspired her grandson Kevin to pursue a career as a chef. She passed along her striking red hair to her grandson Brian, and her playful spirit and sense of humor created a special bond with her granddaughter, Emily, filling their time together with pranks and laughter. Her love for Peter Michael, assured him that she will continue to watch over and protect him from Heaven. She loved every moment with her great-grandson Greyson, who for the past five years has been the highlight of her week and the star of many of her best stories.The friendships she built at Tarditi Commons where she resided, were filled with shared stories and laughter that turned everyday moments into lasting joy.

We would like to express our deepest gratitude to Monsignor Roger McGrath, a lifelong and cherished friend of our mother, who dropped everything to be by her side during her final hours. We like to think she's now smiling, and can't wait to have one more dance with you.

Her visitation will be held Monday, September 29th, at 10:15 am with a mass to follow at 11:00 am at St. John's Catholic Church (St. Teresa of Calcutta Parish), 809 Park Avenue, Collingswood, NJ. Interment Calvary Cemetery, Cherry Hill.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly asks that donations be made in Kathleen's memory to the South Jersey Food Bank in Pennsauken, NJ.

Kathleen's laughter, love, and spirit will remain in the hearts of all who were blessed to know her.

"Oh, I will take you back, Kathleen
To where your heart will feel no pain
And when the fields are fresh and green
I will take you to your home, Kathleen"