Obituary: Joan Stephanie Rozzi

Joan Stephanie Rozzi, at 80

Joan Stephanie (Mascioli) Rozzi, 80, died July 28, 2024 at home, surrounded by her family after years of bravely facing a chronic and ultimately terminal illness.

She was born in Hull on March 18, 1944, along with her twin sister, Judy, one of five children of Peggy and Nick Mascioli of Hull. She was an energetic athlete in her youth and early adulthood, a member of Belles of St. Mary’s drill team from the age of eight until high school graduation, where she fostered many lifelong friendships. Mrs. Rozzi had a highly social and friendly competitive nature, involving herself in many activities over the years, including dance, bowling leagues, and later golf, which quickly became a favorite activity. She graduated Hull High School in the Class of 1962, and was married the following year to the Robert G. Rozzi, Sr. until his death in 2023.

Together, they raised three children in Hull: Judy Robbins of Hull, Robert Rozzi Jr. (Susan Sanders) also of Hull, and Peg Cavallo (Mike Pascarelli) of Lakeville. Mrs. Rozzi will be forever loved and remembered as the nucleus of the family, her influence and importance reverberating in every cherished memory. Gatherings, especially in summer for beach days, were frequent and cherished by all. Her door was always open, with a parking spot for the beach and friendly visits guaranteed.

When she wasn’t working tirelessly as a nurse’s aide during her 36-year career in healthcare, she could be found on the beach engrossed in a good book, on vacation with her sisters, or taking care of the many and various needs of a large extended family. She was everyone’s biggest cheerleader and, at times, harshest critic. But with her, you always knew where you stood. She was smart, funny, silly, energetic, compassionate, always there if you needed someone to talk to, and always ready to laugh the loudest. Her generosity to her friends and family was boundless and only expanded as the family grew.

She will be deeply missed by her sisters and brothers-in-law, Patricia Gallup, Carol and Lou Dallesandro, Judy and George Fabrizio, and Nancy and Rich Hunnicut.

She leaves behind eight grandchildren: Stefani Corrigan (Chris), Marshall Cavallo, Theo Cavallo, Sandra Robbins, Michaela Robbins, Alissa Marcinkewich (Chuck), Robert Rozzi III (Meghan Millian), and Amanda Rozzi. Also, five great-grandchildren: Josefene, Christopher, Henry, Kamdyn, and Kinsey, all of whom were the greatest source of joy in her life.

Visiting hours were held on Wednesday, August 7, at the Pyne Keohane Funeral Home, Hingham. A Celebration of Life Service will be held in the funeral home at 9:30 a.m. on Thursday prior to the funeral Mass in St. Mary’s Parish in St. Ann’s Church at 10:30 a.m. Cremation will follow. Visit www.keohane.com for online condolences.

Obituary: Virginia T. Lyons

Virginia T. Lyons, at 99

Virginia T. “Ginny/Gigi” Lyons, age 99, passed away on July 9, 2024, surrounded by her family. She is survived by her daughter Jinny (Gagan) Nealon and her husband, Jack, formerly of Hull and her son Bill Gagan and his wife, Susan; as well as three grandchildren: Jordan, Taylor, and Connor Gagan, all of Bow, N.H. She was predeceased by her parents, John D. and Julia B (Byron) Lyons of Dorchester, and her siblings, Mary A.(Yaya) Collins and her husband, Jerry, of Portland, Oregon; Marguerite (Sissy) Lyons of Dorchester; Julia B (Bebe) Golden and her husband, James (Jimmie), of Hull and Milton; and John D.(Jack) Lyons, Jr. and his wife, Ruth, of Squantum. 

Ms. Lyons attended school at the St. Gregory Parish schools in Dorchester from elementary through high school and the Boston Trade School in Roxbury, where she developed a love for sewing, especially millinery. As a child, she studied the piano and elocution and was involved in many recitals for both. Her winters were spent in Dorchester, where she was an exceptional ice skater. The family spent summers in their beloved Hull, enjoying all the beach had to offer. Ms. Lyons loved rowing her boat in Hull Bay, swimming, playing tennis, participating in Hull Gala Days, and exploring the islands, especially Bumpkin Island. 

After school, Ms. Lyons was a milliner’s apprentice in the historic textile area of Boston. Following that apprenticeship, she was employed by the bridal designer Priscilla of Boston on Newbury Street as a runway model for bridal dresses and the head designer of the bridal veil department. Always up for an adventure, she often told of the glamorous buyers’ trips the Priscilla staff would take to New York City and the lavish restaurants and Broadway shows they would enjoy while in New York. Her favorite show was “The King and I” starring Yul Brynner and Gertrude Lawrence. Ms. Lyons was always fun-loving; whether it was family events for birthdays, weddings, or funerals, whenever the entire extended family was together, it was always a great time.

Following Priscilla, Ms. Lyons married and settled in Dorchester, Hyde Park, and finally, Hull. During that time, she was employed in a variety of jobs, such as salesperson in Remick’s of Quincy, Gates department store in Scituate, Talbots in Hingham, Priscilla’s Bridal Shop in Braintree, and in the Hull school system as a monitor in the lunch room of the Jacobs Elementary School. 

Ms. Lyons loved to dance, sing, knit, sew, make veils for brides and first communicants, garden, read, spend time with her friends and family, and watch “Wheel of Fortune” and “Jeopardy” every night, but her favorite pastime was being in Hull and sitting on her porch on Cadish Avenue watching the sailboats in Hull Bay and counting the airplanes that flew in and out of Logan Airport, wondering where they were going to or coming from. She loved her family and friends and she will be missed.

A memorial Mass will take place at St. Mary of the Assumption Parish on Monday, September 9 at 11:00 a.m., followed by a celebration to be announced at a later date.

Donations can be made in Ginny’s memory to the Friends of the Paragon Carousel, the Alzheimer’s Association, or the Boston Archdiocese Catholic TV.

To leave the Lyons family a condolence message, please visit www.dolanfuneral.com.

Obituary: Ann Joyce Price

Ann Joyce Price, at 78

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Ann Joyce (Park) Price, a beloved wife, mother, grandmother, and friend. Mrs. Price passed away peacefully at her home in Ashland, surrounded by her loving family, on July 27, 2024. She was 78.

Mrs. Price was born on March 15, 1946 in Boston. She was the loyal wife of Richard Lawrence Price and the beloved daughter of the late Louis Park and Mollie (Greenspan) Park. She was also the younger sister of Barry Park. She was the most perfect, nurturing, and supportive mother to her three children: Marc Scott Price, married to Hillary Koritz Price; Lori Beth Price, married to Yoni Kassar; and Stacey Jill Price, partner of Evan Duning. Mrs. Price was a doting “Grammie” to Jared Price, Mila Kassar, Judah Kassar, and Bijoux Price Duning.

Her family meant the world to her, and she expressed her love through cooking, baking, crafting, and gardening. Her home was always filled with the scent of delicious meals or freshly baked goods, and her gardens were always bursting with color and warmth. Her grandchildren were the absolute light of her life, and she cherished every moment spent with each of them. Mrs. Price had a deep love for all the holidays, ensuring every celebration was filled with picture-perfect decorations, warmth for all, and joy. Each holiday was always accompanied by her signature cards without fail.

Mrs. Price had a beautiful, yet simple, passion for life. She found immense pleasure in hunting for and collecting sea glass, a hobby that symbolized her ability to find beauty in the smallest of things. Mrs. Price had a special affinity for the beach, finding peace and happiness watching waves come and go as boats drifted by.

Mrs. Price was fiercely devoted to her friends and family, always there with a helping hand and an encouraging word. Her unwavering support and boundless love will be greatly missed by all who knew her.

Services and burial were held on Monday, July 29 at the chapel at Sharon Memorial Park in Sharon. The celebration of life followed the service at Pinebrook Country Club and continued the following evening at the Cookingham Greene Clubhouse in Ashland.

In lieu of flowers, remembrances in Mrs. Price’s memory may be made to the Dana Farber Cancer Institute. Our Annie J & Grammie will forever be remembered for her kind heart, loving spirit, and the joy she brought into the lives of those around her. She will be deeply missed but never forgotten. May her memory be a blessing. Zichrona l’vracha.

Obituary: Louis A. Rivieccio

Louis A. Rivieccio

Louis A. Rivieccio of Hull died July 17, 2024. He was the son of the late Joseph Rivieccio and Maria Lucille (Teixeira) Rivieccio and the brother of the late Margaret Medeiros, Georgina Jones, Francis Rivieccio, Joseph Rivieccio, Walter Rivieccio, and Anthony Rivieccio. Mr. Rivieccio also is survived by several nieces and nephews.

Mr. Rivieccio worked as a custodian at St. Paul’s School for several years. He enjoyed attending the kids’ basketball games, plays, and concerts. He considered the families he met over the years part of his family.

Mr. Rivieccio enjoyed socializing with his friends at Schooner’s Restaurant. He enjoyed joking with his friends there, especially during New Year’s celebrations.

Mr. Rivieccio’s family would like to thank the staff at Braintree Manor for the care and comfort they gave to Louis while he was in their care.

Relatives and friends are respectfully invited to greet the family during the visiting hours on Friday, July 26, from 4-7 p.m. in the Pyne Keohane Funeral Home, 21 Emerald St., Hingham. Burial will be private. In lieu of flowers, donations in memory of Louie may be made to St. Paul’s Parish, 147 North St., Hingham, MA 02043. Visit www.keohane.com for online condolences.

Obituary: Winifred Carroll

Winifred Carroll, at 77

Winifred (Coffey) Carroll, 77, of Quincy, formerly of Brighton and South Weymouth, passed away peacefully surrounded by loved ones on July 13, 2024 at the Pat Roche Hospice House in Hingham.

Known to most as Fredi, Mrs. Carroll was born in Boston in 1946. She attended St. Columbkille’s School in Brighton from first grade through graduation. She went on to Catherine Labouré School of Nursing, earning a bachelor’s of science in nursing. 

After their wedding in 1971, her husband David’s career in the Drug Enforcement Agency brought them to New York City, where she was an on-site nurse during the construction of the Twin Towers. Upon returning to Boston, Mrs. Carroll accepted a position on the IV team at Boston Children’s Hospital. She had found her calling; working in pediatrics was incredibly rewarding, knowing she was making a difference in the lives of children and their families. 

Born and raised in Brighton, she took great pride in being a Bostonian. She loved the action of the city; theater, art, music, politics, sports, and the convenience of public transportation were woven into the fabric of her being. Every summer, her family would return to their Saltbox cottage on Town Way Extension in Scituate on Peggotty Beach. When the house was washed away in the storm of 1978, a part of her heart went with it. Spending summers in Scituate was a cherished part of her youth. In the mid-1980s, Fredi and David restored a historic house in South Weymouth, where they would raise their children. They took joy in bringing the house and yard back to its original 19th century glory. After the death of her husband in 1999, Mrs. Carroll moved to Hull to be close to the water. She made many friends there and was an active member of the community. 

Mrs. Carroll was a person of many talents and interests. She was a calligrapher, a Reiki Master and lover of music. She and her husband held season tickets to the Boston Symphony Orchestra and supported many local musicians. She was an avid gardener and loved science. Mrs. Carroll was a great cook; Thanksgiving won’t be the same without her cranberry relish. Education was paramount in her life; she valued learning and personal growth all her days. She instilled this love of learning in her children and continued her education after retirement at UMass-Boston. She moved through her life with grace and awareness, and had a wonderful sense of humor. Mrs. Carroll’s incredibly strong spirit aided her as she battled cancer numerous times before finally coming to rest. Her greatest joy, however, was spending time with her grandchildren. Clarkie, Davey, Tommy, Cece, PK, and Leo were the lights of her life. 

Beloved spouse of the late David Carroll, Jr. of South Weymouth. Dedicated mother of David Carroll, III and Shannan of Saratoga, N.Y. and Liz (Carroll) and Peter Gunderson of Hull. Daughter of the late Mary and Frank Coffey. Sibling of the late Fran Coffey and Kit of Cohasset. She also leaves behind many special friends, in-laws, and nieces and nephews.

Mrs. Carroll services and celebration of her life will be held in September. For those who wish, in lieu of flowers, the family is requesting contributions made in Winifred “Fredi” Carroll’s name to the Melodies Center for Childhood Cancer & Blood Disorders at the Bernard & Millie Duker Children’s Hospital, c/o Albany Medical Center Foundation, 43 New Scotland Ave., MC-119, Albany, NY 12208, or by visiting https://engage.amc.edu/

Arrangements are under the compassionate care of Hamel-Lydon Chapel, Quincy. For information and online condolences, visit www.HamelLydon.com

Obituary: Philip P. Bryan, Jr.

Philip P. Bryan, Jr. at 89

 Philip P. Bryan Jr, 89, died peacefully on July 12, 2024, at Greystone Farms in Salem, N.H.

Mr. Bryan was born on November 7, 1934 in Boston to the late Philip and Helen (Benway) Bryan. He was married 67 years to his beloved wife, Elizabeth M. (Koch) Bryan, who predeceased him. He grew up and was educated in West Roxbury, where he graduated from Boston Trade School for Boys. He was a resident of Salem, N.H., for the past 13 months, although he spent most of his life in Hull and enjoyed many retirement years in Largo, Florida.

Mr. Bryan retired from Boston Edison, where he worked for many years as a dispatcher. He is most proud of his service in the U.S. Marine Corps, living out the pledge of faithfulness, loyalty, and commitment – “semper fidelis.” He enjoyed all sports but especially baseball (and the Red Sox), golfing, bowling, and boating. He taught his children many things, like riding a bike, ice skating, how to care for your vehicle, water skiing, how to fish and clean them. Phil was a trumpet player, an animal lover, and loved music, especially singing and dancing with Liz.

Besides his parents and his wife, Mr. Bryan was predeceased by his sister, Joan Kelley.

Mr. Bryan’s legacy is his children, Katherine and her husband, George Fredette, of Salem, N.H.; Lisa Bryan and her life partner, Allen Lefleur, of Hull; Donna and her husband, Lou Barinelli, of Tewksbury; Patricia and her husband, Peter Aldrich, of Narragansett, R.I.; Philip J. and his wife, Wendy Bryan, of Dedham; Michael and his wife, Sandy Bryan, of Tewksbury. He was grandpa to his 15 grandchildren and four great-grandchildren.

Friends and relatives are invited to a celebration of life on Sunday, July 21, with visitation from 12 p.m. to 2 p.m., followed by a funeral service at 2 p.m., at the Carrier Family Funeral Home, 38 Range Rd, Windham, N.H. Burial will be at a private ceremony at the Gardens of Gethsemane Cemetery in Boston.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Semper K9 or another veterans organization of your choice. For directions or to send a message of condolence to the family, visit www.carrierfuneralhome.com.

Obituary: Ann D. Dittman

Ann D. Dittman, at 92

Ann D. (Hill) Dittman of Hull died on July 8, 2024. She was 92.

Mrs. Dittman was beloved wife of the late Richard Quinn, the late James Duffy, and the late James Dittman; the mother of Nancy Derderian and her husband, Mark, of North Andover and the late Michael Hill and Kathleen Coughlin. She was the sister of the late Alice Hill.

Mrs. Dittman was the stepmother of Rita Poravas and her husband, Harry, of Hull, Wayne Duffy of Derry, N.H., Jimmy Duffy of Everett, and the late Maureen, John, and William Duffy. She was the grandmother of Thomas Coughlin, Sabrina Brown, James Fay, Candice Kraus, Frank Gaudette, Wayne Duffy, Jr., John Hagerty, and the late Allison Krause, and is survived by many great-grandchildren and great-great-grandchildren. 

Mrs. Dittman loved to be around her family, especially at the holidays. She was a huge Patriots fan and wore her favorite red Patriots sweatshirt all the time. One of her favorite things was to sit in her chair and listen to her murder mystery tapes with the volume turned way up! She will be missed by many.

Relatives and friends are invited to her funeral Mass in St. Mary’s Parish in St. Ann’s Church on Monday, July 22 at 10:30 a.m. In lieu of flowers, donations in memory of Ann may be made to the Perkins School for the Blind, 175 North Beacon St., Watertown, MA 02472. Visit www.keohane.com for online condolences.

Obituary: Henry Finneran

Henry Finneran, at 82

Henry “Buddy” Finneran, 82, of Rockland, formerly of Hull and Pembroke, died peacefully in his sleep after a short illness on Saturday, July 6, 2024, at the Pat Roche Hospice Home in Hingham. 

Mr. Finneran was born in Boston on March 26, 1942, to Henry and Dorothy (Little) Finneran, and was the beloved husband of to Virginia (Spencer) for 62 years. Ginny and Buddy were childhood friends who surprised their families when they eloped in their late teens. Although legally married, another wedding in the Catholic Church took place at the insistence of their parents. The story of the elopement remains one of the many favorite stories told through the years.

Mr. Finneran spent his career at Sunbeam Bread and worked there for over 26 years. After retiring, Buddy and Ginny operated the Atlantic Hill Market in Hull.

Mr. Finneran loved his family, the beach, and all things sports. He enjoyed telling stories and would repeat his favorite tales, always getting a laugh and a smile.

Mr. Finneran leaves behind his siblings, June St Croix of Hingham, Joseph Finneran of Quincy, Robert Finneran of Hull, and Michael (Laraine) Finneran of Hingham. He also leaves a dear cousin, Bobby Stabins of Hull. He is survived by many nieces, nephews, grandnieces, and grandnephews.

Mr. Finneran was predeceased by sisters Janet Bennett and Dorothy Smith and brothers George Finneran and Jackie Finneran.
Following cremation, Mr. Finneran will be interred privately, and services will follow at a later date.

In Buddy’s memory, donations can be made to the Pat Roche Home, c/o NVNA and Hospice Charitable Fund, 120 Longwater Drive Norwell, MA 02061 or at www.nvna.org/charitable-fund.

For more information and online guestbook, visit www.downingchapel.com.

Obituary: Jeanne F. Donovan

Jeanne F. Donovan, at 70

Jeanne F. Donovan, 70, died on July 3, 2024 after a brief illness, with family by her side.

Ms. Donovan was born and raised in Dorchester, the second oldest of eight children. She dedicated her life to serving others as a waitress, spending the last few decades as a familiar face at Schooner’s restaurant in Hull. Ms. Donovan found joy in spending time at the beach, gardening, and cooking for her family. She had a special talent for making sure no one ever left a party hungry, always serving second and third helpings, even if you didn’t want them.

A devoted aunt, Ms. Donovan’s life was enriched by her many nieces and nephews. She loved spending time with them and telling her famous stories.

Ms. Donovan leaves behind her siblings: Joan Donovan, Nancy Donovan Quinn, Eileen Donovan, and Gerard and his wife, Kim Donovan, all of Hull, and Dan Donovan of Pasadena, California.

Ms. Donovan was predeceased by her parents, Eileen and Gerard Donovan, and her siblings Kathy Donovan and Paul Donovan.

A service to celebrate Ms. Donovan’s life will be held at a later date.

Obituary: Richard Glackemeyer

Richard Glackemeyer, at 79

Richard Everett Glackemeyer, cherished husband of Beverly (Weiner) Glackemeyer and resident of Hull, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, June 25, 2024 after a long struggle with Parkinson’s disease at the age of 79. He was surrounded by loved ones and leaves behind a legacy of love and warmth that touched the lives of all who knew him. 

Mr. Glackemeyer was a Vietnam veteran, serving his country in the Air Force in the mid-1960s prior to the Tet Offensive, which changed the trajectory of the war. 

He was extremely intelligent, graduating after his military service with a double major in computer science and psychology from the University of Massachusetts at Amherst, followed by a master’s in computer science from the same university. 

He made many pivotal contributions in the fields of computer science and computer design while working at Digital Equipment Corporation in the 1980s and still holds several patents on computer processes related to the VAX 8600 computer. Because of his outstanding contributions to Digital Equipment Corporation, the company sponsored his further study of artificial intelligence at Carnegie Mellon in Pittsburgh, where he worked in the AI lab with colleagues at the forefront of AI at the time. 

Born in Salem to Everett and Louise (Drees) Glackemeyer, Mr. Glackemeyer was the loving brother of Kathryn (Glackemeyer) Nusraty and her late husband, Hasan, of the San Francisco Bay Area in California, and was predeceased by his brother Henry Glackemeyer. He was a devoted brother-in-law to Myrna Weiner of Framingham, and Alan Weiner and family of Florida and Rowley. 

Mr. Glackemeyer’s kindness extended to his nieces and nephews, whom he loved dearly: Khorshied Nusraty and her husband, John MacAllister, of McLean, Virginia; Dawoud Nasraty and his wife, Claudia (Hernandez) Nasraty, of California; and Timur Nusraty and his wife, Anna Morgan, of California and London. He was the loving great uncle of Soleiman and Arman Samad of Virginia, Maya and Lila Nusraty of California and London, and Oliver Nasraty of California. 

Mr. Glackemeyer also took great joy from photography. His still photographs were displayed and sold at local hotels and stores in Hull. He always strove for balance between creative, technical, and intellectual pursuits, which enriched the lives of many, inspiring colleagues and peers alike.

Mr. Glackemeyer leaves behind many cousins, extended family members, and dear friends who will miss his gentle spirit, sense of humor, and unwavering kindness.

A celebration of his life will be held at a future date. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Michael J. Fox Foundation by visiting: https://www.michaeljfox.org.

Richard Glackemeyer’s memory will forever live on in the hearts of those who were fortunate enough to have known and loved him. Visit www.keohane.com for online condolences.

Obituary: Richard Zella

Richard Zella, at 68

Richard “Rick” Zella, 68, of Hull, formerly of Weymouth, passed away on June 30, 2024 surrounded by his family and friends, with great love, compassion and kindness.

He leaves two children, Michael Zella of East Lyme, Connecticut, and Greg Zella of Carver, and his sister, Leslie Zella, of Hull. In addition, he leaves many close friends and family.
Mr. Zella was preceded in death by his brother, Stephen Zella, and his father, Alfred Zella.

He loved the ocean an enjoyed the adventures of boating throughout his life.

A graveside service will be held on Thursday July 11, at noon, at the Hull Village Cemetery. A celebration of life will follow for friends and family.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Dana-Farber Cancer Institute in memory of Rick Zella to support cancer research.

For more information and online guestbook visit www.downingchapel.com. 

Obituary: Nancy Lee Silverstein

Nancy Lee Silverstein

Nancy Lee Silverstein passed away peacefully on June 24, 2024 in London, surrounded by loving friends. 

Ms. Silverstein was raised in Quincy and spent her summers in Hull. For many years, she had been a resident of the U.K., where she co-founded The Really Healthy Company in 1995. Ms. Silverstein is survived by her partner, Andrew Paterson, brother Donald Silverstein, sister Marilyn Silverstein and her partner Nancy Radner, and nieces Alison, Tanya, and Amanda. She was preceded in death by her father, Jack Silverstein, mother Inez Silverstein, and brother Peter Silverstein.

Arrangements for Ms. Silverstein are pending in London.

Obituary: James A. Roche

James A. Roche, at 63

James “Jim” Roche of Hull passed away after a brief illness on February 29, 2024 at the age of 63.

Born in Boston, he was the son of the late James Roche and Bridget Roche Hepburn. Mr. Roche was raised in Hull surrounded by many siblings and friends. He was a tremendous athlete, playing many sports for the town of Hull, and continued his football career at Northeastern University. Mr. Roche was honored by the Hull High School Hall of Fame in 2023 for being on the 1977 Super Bowl team.

Mr. Roche is survived by his children, James Roche, Jonathan Roche and wife, Kimberly, and Jordan Roche, all of New Jersey. Brother of Bridget Campbell of Hingham, AnnMarie Dunn of Hull, Patrick Roche of Quincy, and Michael Roche of Hull. He was predeceased by his sisters, Mary Roche Salvador and Kathleen Roche.

He will be sadly missed by all of his family and friends. The family is holding a private celebration of life for Jim.

Obituary: Robert Brooks MacFarland

Robert Brooks MacFarland, at 87

Robert “Bob” Brooks MacFarland of Hull passed away on March 6, 2024 at the age of 87.

He is survived by his faithful wife of 25 years, Jeanne MacFarland, who lovingly and selflessly took care of her husband in his last three heart-wrenching months.

Born on June 24, 1936, Mr. MacFarland was a lifelong resident of Massachusetts. He primarily lived in Wollaston, Duxbury, and Hull. He loved the ocean, where he felt at home. In his younger years, he would swim in the ocean for miles each day from March through November.

Mr. MacFarland was an inventor with at least one invention (the sickle hook downspout hanger) on display at the Smithsonian Museum in Washington, D.C. He also owned several businesses over the years, including MacFarland and Sons Hardware Store, A Country Store and Ice Cream Parlor, a realty company, as well as MacBilt for his inventions.

Mr. MacFarland loved outdoor activities, from snow skiing to basketball to swimming to kayaking. His absence leaves a void deeply felt yet his memory cherished, particularly among the denizens of the YMCA where Mr. MacFarland, the institution’s longest-standing member since the tender age of 15, frequented until December 2023, spanning an astonishing 72 years. To him the Y was more than a gym; it was his sanctified mission field, where he tirelessly shared the gospel, enriching countless lives through the power of his personal testimony.

Mr. MacFarland’s most fond memories were of Duxbury, Camp Chappa Challa, Gurnet, and Saquish. His happiest times were when he stayed at his cottage on Gurnet. He also loved to travel and owned many timeshares over the years. He was a master craftsman who restored old and vintage items and houses to their original glory days.

Mr. MacFarland outlived his first wife, Martha MacFarland, by one day shy of two years. They were in close contact and enjoyed talking on the phone for long periods of time. They had two children, Denise of central Florida and Scott of southeast Florida. They shared six grandchildren, and two great-grandchildren, with another on the way.

Mr. MacFarland also was in close contact with his second wife, Pauline Platter. They had two children, Melissa of Texas and Jeremy of Montana. They share two grandchildren.

Mr. MacFarland also leaves his four stepchildren, Tristan, Morgan, Holden, and Zoe Stoner and six step-grandchildren.

Please join us on June 28 for a Celebration of Life service at 6 p.m. at Life Community Church, 158 Washington Street, Quincy.

Obituary: Robert James O’Connell

Robert James O’Connell , at 77

Robert James O’Connell, a.k.a. “Papa Bob,” made his final transition peacefully on the early morning of June 17, 2024, surrounded by the love of his life, Cindi, and his family, including his furry best friends, Sasha and Milo. 

He was born on July 12, 1946 in Boston. Mr. O’Connell’s life was defined by acts of service, making those around him laugh, woodwork, and his love of Boston sports. He was a decorated war hero who served in Vietnam as a paratrooper in the U.S. Army. He served his country with the utmost pride, respect, and dedication. For his perseverance, service, and heroic actions, Mr. O’Connell received a Purple Heart medal. 

Mr. O’Connell and his wife, Cynthia, were snowbirds for many years by traveling to Florida. Together, they enjoyed camping, their pups, and many laughs with their grandchildren. As avid Boston fans, they celebrated each Patriots Super Bowl win, Red Sox World Series championship, and other teams together. Friends even nicknamed him “Boston Bob” for his love of Boston sports. Not only was he interested in sports, but he was also a huge history buff, watching YouTube videos often.

He is survived by his wife, Cynthia O’Connell; their children, April and Kevin Woodcock, and Glenn and Jeannine Heavens; niece Karen Terrell; their six grandchildren, Georgia, Lucas, Raymond, Wyatt, Jonathan, and Lillian; and his best friend, Gordon Cushman. 

As a private man, Mr. O’Connell’s services will only be held for immediate friends and family. Those interested in information regarding the celebration of his life should email April Woodcock (awoodcock@touchingclients.com). Anyone wishing to honor Mr. O’Connell’s life is invited to donate in memory to Clear Path for Veterans New England (clearpathne.org). 

Obituary: John Patrick Walsh

John Patrick Walsh, at 79

John Patrick Walsh of Hull died surrounded by his family in his home after a courageous battle on June 8, 2024. He was 79.

He was the beloved husband of 58 years of Lucille (Robishaw) Walsh of Hull, and the loving father of Susan Brunke, Sharon Walsh, John Walsh, and Kathleen Ball, all of Hull. Brother of Barbara Byron of Kingston, Mark Walsh of Florida, Stephen Walsh of Brockton, Martin Walsh of Colorado, and the late Michael Walsh and Mary Walker. Proud grandfather of 10 grandchildren and three great-grandchildren, and many nieces and nephews.

Mr. Walsh lived a rich and active life, deeply involved in his community and various interests. His dedication to Local 223 for more than 28 years, serving as vice president, indicates a strong work ethic and commitment to labor causes. It’s heartwarming to hear about his involvement in recreational activities like bowling and golf, as well as his contributions to youth sports through coaching girls soccer in Hull. Being part of social clubs like the Knights of Columbus and the South Boston Hobos – the boys who hung out at the corner of H and 5th Streets in South Boston, which is where he met his wife, Lucille – suggests he valued camaraderie and connections within his community. He was a member of the pick and shovel club in Hull, as well as a member of the St. Ann’s bowling league and a member of the McKeon Post in Dorchester. His passion for boxing, evident through his Golden Glove Championship, and his support for New England sports teams highlight his love for athletics. Mr. Walsh also loved horse racing. 

He leaves a legacy of community engagement, sportsmanship, and camaraderie, and will be sadly missed by everyone who knew him. 

A funeral Mass will be celebrated on June 15 at 10 a.m. in St. Ann’s Church. The family will greet neighbors and friends before Mass starting at 9 a.m. Donations in memory of Mr. Walsh may be made to the Alzheimer’s Association, 320 Nevada St., Newton, MA 02460. 

Obituary: Margaret R. Charles

Margaret R. Charles, at 93

Margaret R. Charles, 93, of Cohasset, widow of Francis Charles, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, June 5, 2024 at Avita of Newburyport. 

Mrs. Charles was born in Dorchester on September 28, 1930, the daughter of Charles and Eileen (Kennally) Reynolds. She was raised in Canton and Hull prior to moving to Cohasset in 1958. Margy attended Jeanne D’Arc Academy and then received her BS at the College of New Rochelle, and later received her master’s in special education from Simmons College. She worked as a teacher in the Boston Public Schools, and later in life became a real estate broker. Mrs. Charles was an enthusiastic social activist and served on many Cohasset town committees. She was a eucharistic minister and daily communicant at St. Anthony’s Catholic Church and enjoyed racing 110 and 210 sailboats with her husband, Fran, and was a lifelong member of the Hull Yacht Club. 

Mrs. Charles will be fondly remembered as a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother. She is survived by her daughter Ann Craig and her husband, Thomas, of West Newbury and her son Francis Charles, Jr. and his wife, Susan, of Byfield. Mrs. Charles also leaves behind her grandchildren: Brewster and wife Sara Charles, Bridget and husband Jason Maley, Grace Charles and husband Curt Nehrkorn, Tucker Charles, Stewart Craig, Margaret and husband Troy Zangle, William Craig, and Benjamin Craig, as well as great-grandchildren Mirabelle and Violet Maley. She was predeceased by her brothers William Reynolds, Charles Reynolds III, and her sister Mary Reynolds. 

A funeral Mass will be held at 11 a.m. on June 17 at St. Anthony of Padua Church in Cohasset. All are welcome to join Mrs. Charles’s family after Mass in the adjacent parish hall to celebrate her life and share fond memories. Burial will follow the reception in Cohasset Central Cemetery. As many of her family and friends know, Mrs. Charles was an enthusiastic advocate for folks who are discriminated against because of their ethnicity, gender, orientation, or socioeconomic situation. In lieu of flowers and in remembrance of her loving and generous spirit, please consider a gift in her name to the Southern Poverty Law Center. Arrangements are under the care of the Kevin B. Comeau Funeral Home, Haverhill. Visit www.comeaufuneral.com for online condolences.

Obituary: Ann Frances McCullough

Ann Frances McCullough, at 82

Ann Frances McCullough, age 82, of Venice, Florida, peacefully passed away on May 14, 2024, surrounded by friends and family.

Mrs. McCullough grew up in Hull and was the first child of the late John Mahoney, Sr. and Hilda (DeLeo) Mahoney. She was the beloved wife of the late George McCullough and loving mother of the late Jeffrey Sobczak. She is survived by her son, Greg Sobczak, and her daughter and son-in-law, Andrea and Bill Tramontana, as well as grandchildren Daniel, Julia, and Jack, all of Hull.

Mrs. McCullough also is survived by brothers Peter Mahoney and John Mahoney, Jr., both of Hull, and was the sister of the late Dorie Saville.

Mrs. McCullough lived in Hull for 42 years and worked at the New England Telephone Company as a drug and alcohol counselor before retiring to Florida with her husband, George. She was a proud member of AA for 51 years and was fortunate to help many people along the way. She enjoyed traveling the world with George, but enjoyed coming home to the “peninsula” to see family and friends 

There will be a service at St. Ann’s Church, 208 Samoset Ave., on June 8 at 10 a.m., followed by burial at the Hull Village Cemetery. There will be a celebration of life immediately following at the Nantasket Beach Salt Water Club, 3 Fitzpatrick Way.

Obituary: Susan D. Medalie

Susan D. Medalie, at 85

Susan D. Medalie, 85, of Cleveland, Ohio, and Hull, loving wife and mother, lawyer and aficionado of politics, died from sepsis on May 9, 2024.

Susan was the cherished wife for 61 years of Richard “Rick” Medalie (deceased), and mother of Samuel and Daniel (Diana). She also is survived by her brother, George S. Abrams, twin grandchildren Clara and Benjamin Medalie, nieces Sarah Abrams and Rebecca Abrams (Nathan Benn), and grand-nephew Tobias Benn. Her beloved sister was the late Massachusetts Supreme Judicial Court Justice Ruth I. Abrams.

Mrs. Medalie was born in Newton, was a graduate of Sarah Lawrence College and George Washington University, and earned a law degree from American University.

In her 20s, Mrs. Medalie moved with her husband and two sons to Washington, D.C., where for 40 years she immersed herself in political advocacy, event planning, and fundraising. Among her proudest projects were helping to launch the U.S. Holocaust Museum and serving as executive director of the Women’s Campaign Fund, a bipartisan political action committee dedicated to increasing the number of women in public office.

Upon retirement, Susan and Rick moved to Hull, to the same house on P Street that her father, Sam, had bought in 1942. Mrs. Medalie’s grandfather, an immigrant from Russia, had first moved to Hull in the late 1800s, and her own father was born and raised there before settling in Newton. She had spent every summer of her life in Hull from the age of four. Over many decades, the old house had become a summer way station for siblings, aunts, uncles, and cousins intent on lounging on the beach, eating lobsters and steamers at Jake’s, and strolling the boardwalk at Paragon Park. New England clam chowder was the only soup allowed at Mrs. Medalie’s home!

Now in Hull full time, Mrs. Medalie immersed herself in the local community, becoming a shrewd bargain hunter at the Hingham auction house and a passionate member of the Hull Garden Club. Life was peaceful. And then COVID hit. In quick and tragic succession, Mr. Medalie succumbed to the virus, and Mrs. Medalie’s home was destroyed when a pipe burst, flooding the entire first floor. Grief-stricken, Mrs. Medalie agreed (with some trepidation) to move to Cleveland, near her younger son, Daniel.

She made new friends – noting wryly that Midwesterners thought the same things as people from the East Coast, they just didn’t say them out loud – attended concerts, argued politics, and wrote dozens of book reviews for her community newsletter. She also discovered a consuming new passion for art, and within short order produced a solo show of paintings and collage. It was still hanging on the building’s walls when Mrs. Medalie died.

For those who knew her, Susan was unforgettable. She had a mischievous smile, a halo of curly reddish-brown hair that turned snow-white in her later years, and a singular and elegant sense of style – whether attending a D.C. gala or a trip to the thrift store. Dynamic, outspoken, flashy, and sardonic, she could be a tempest one moment and a comic the next. Politics was her life blood. She was fiercely loyal to those she loved most: her friends, her home in Hull, and above all, her family. For the guestbook, visit www.brown-forward.com

Obituary: John Anthony Polito, Jr.

John Anthony Polito, Jr.

John Anthony “Jay” Polito, Jr. of Hull died on May 23, 2024 at his home, surrounded by the family that adored him, after a courageous battle with cancer.

Mr. Polito had a rich tapestry of experiences that colored his life. Growing up in Quincy and graduating from UMass-Boston provided him with a solid foundation. His career journey took him through various paths, including international sales at National Fire Protection in Quincy, where he had the opportunity to traverse the globe, from the Middle East to the Philippines and Dubai. He was fortunate to have traveled the world extensively. Mr. Polito also worked for many years at Millard Metal in Braintree, giving him the adventure of driving New England.

Beyond his professional pursuits, Mr. Polito found joy in the simple pleasures of life. Cooking and entertaining friends were among his favorite pastimes, creating cherished memories around the dinner table. Living in Hull, the town he loved, he relished the coastal lifestyle, finding solace and beauty in its surroundings. His love for the theater added another layer to his cultural experiences, enriching his life with art and storytelling.

However, amidst all his endeavors, Mr. Polito held his family closest to his heart. They were his anchor, his source of strength and happiness. Their bond was unbreakable, providing him with unwavering support and love throughout his journey. In the tapestry of Mr. Polito’s life, family was the thread that connected everything together, weaving a story of love, laughter, and cherished moments. For all those who were fortunate to have known Jay, he was more than a friend; he was a very special person to so many people. He will be sadly missed but never forgotten. 

Mr. Polito leaves his beloved wife of 26 years Maryann Weeks (Manley) Polito. Cherished father of James Giovanni Polito and Maria Roisin Polito, both of Hull. Son of the late John A. Polito, Sr. and Josephine (Maggio) Polito. Brother of James Gerard Polito of Florida and Jeanmarie Sara Bowler and her husband, Paul Charles Bowler, of Duxbury. Uncle of Emily Grace and Anthony John Bowler, both of Duxbury. Mr. Polito also is survived by many cousins and dear friends. 

Relatives and friends are respectfully invited to greet the family during the visiting hours on Thursday May 30, from 4-8 p.m. in the Pyne Keohane Funeral Home, 21 Emerald St., Hingham. A Celebration of Life Service will be held in the funeral home at 9:45 a.m. on Friday, prior to the funeral Mass in Sacred Heart Church, Weymouth Landing, at 10:30 a.m. Burial in Hull Village Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, donations in memory of Jay may be made to Wellspring Multi-Service Center, 814 Nantasket Ave., Hull, MA 02045. Visit www.keohane.com for directions and online condolences.