Patricia M Cusack

In Loving Memory of Patricia M. Cusack

Honoring a Life of Compassion, Dedication, and Strength

It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Patricia M. Cusack, age 63, on January 31, 2026, in Boston, MA. After a courageous two-and-a-half-year battle with cancer, Patricia ("Patti") peacefully left this world surrounded by the love of her family and friends. Patti was a beloved mother, grandmother, wife, daughter, sister, and friend whose unwavering kindness and generosity touched the lives of all who knew her.

A devoted wife for 30 years, Patti is survived by her loving husband, Michael J. Cusack. She was the proud and caring mother of three children who adored her: daughter Alison M. Schmidt and her husband Brian Schmidt; son M. Harry Cusack and his wife Amanda Cusack; and son Edward 'Teddy' Cusack. Patti's pride for her family and joy multiplied with the arrival of her cherished grandson, Rory J. Schmidt, who brought laughter, more love and renewed energy to the last few months of her life.

Patti is also survived by her mother, Brenda M. Peck of Waynesboro, VA; her brother and sister-in-law, Edward and Sarah Peck of Cleveland Heights, OH; her sister Alice Peck of Cape Coral, FL; her mother-in-law Loretta J. Cusack of Brick, NJ: her brother and sister-in-law William and Eda Saeger of Las Vegas, NV; brother and sister-in-law Gregg and Rischel Saeger of Marathon, FL, sister-in-law Laurie J. Herbst of Brick, NJ and brother and sister-in-law Marc and Lisa Saeger of Toms River, NJ along with numerous nieces and nephews. Patricia's family was her greatest source of pride, and she nurtured and protected those bonds with endless love and devotion.

A graduate of Merrimack College, Patti's commitment to making a difference guided her life's work. As the founder of a non-profit organization, Windward Sails Charitable Foundation, she dedicated so much of her time to serving others, especially those with intellectual and/or developmental disabilities. Her compassion and advocacy helped create more inclusive communities, including Windward Crossing in Rowley, MA, and inspired others to join in her mission.

An accomplished life-long athlete, Patti found joy and camaraderie competing on the tennis and pickleball courts. Patti was a two-time USTA mixed doubles national champion and played twice in the US Open Pickleball Championships tournament. She celebrated both victory and defeat with grace, forging numerous lasting friendships and memories through sport.

Patti was board member of Northeast Arc and a tireless advocate for people with intellectual and/or developmental disabilities, championing their rights, opportunities and contributions to society at every turn. Whether in Naples, FL, or her former hometown of Ipswich, MA, she was a pillar of support for families and individuals, always offering encouragement, resources, and hope. Her legacy of kindness and inclusion will continue to shape the communities she loved.

Patricia's family wishes to express their gratitude to the talented and compassionate doctors, nurses, and staff at Massachusetts General Hospital, especially the amazing care team in Phillips House 21, for their exceptional care and support throughout her illness. Their dedication and kindness brought comfort and dignity to Patti and her loved ones during her most challenging days.

Patricia M. Cusack's life was marked by generosity, strength, and an unwavering belief in the potential of every person. She will be deeply missed by her family, friends, and all who were blessed to know her.

Her Funeral Mass will be celebrated at Our Lady of Good Hope Church, 1 Pineswamp Rd., Ipswich on Friday, February 6 at 10:30AM. Relatives and friends are invited to attend. Visiting hours at the Campbell Funeral Home, 6 High St., Ipswich on Thursday February 5, from 4 to 7PM. Contributions may be made in honor of Patti Cusack's lifelong advocacy and compassion to Patti's non-profit organization, Windward Sails Charitable Foundation, supporting people with intellectual and/or developmental disabilities. Information, directions, condolences at www.campbellfuneral.com.