Catherine "Kay" Barrett

Catherine "Kay" Barrett passed away peacefully at home, surrounded by loved ones on October 2, 2024. Kay is the beloved wife of Joseph Barrett to whom she was married for 53 years. She is the loving mother of Ellen Jae and her husband Cassian Jae; cherished sister of Patricia Shaughnessy; dedicated grandmother, "Nan Nan," to Elyse Jae; adoring Aunt to Ellen Corcoran, Robert Byrne, and their families. Also precious to Kay are the Trainors, including Dianne, John, Susan, Michael, Jeanne, Jodi, and the Barretts in the USA and in Ireland. Kay was pre-deceased by her parents, Christopher and Magdalen McCarthy; her sisters, Dorothy Byrne Melia, and Marie Trainor; her brother, James McCarthy; and her brother-in-law, Daniel Shaughnessy. 

Kay was born in South Boston. She was a proud graduate of the Gate of Heaven School where she made many friends - outstanding among them was Marian Bata, her special pal from the third grade on. And Kay’s life-long best friend and dedicated helper was always her sister, Patricia (Pat) Shaughnessy, complimented by Pat’s eternally optimistic husband, Dan. 

Kay taught first grade for forty years, where she made a lasting impression on her colleagues and on the children entrusted to her care. It was not unusual for Kay to be stopped in the supermarket or on the street by a former student who shared a memory or a heart-felt thanks for the generosity Kay had shown. Truly, Kay never talked about herself, never criticized others, was quick to laugh, was guided by her faith, and always had a kind word for everyone she met.

Of course, the most important influence in Kay’s life was her husband, Joe. Within a day or two of meeting Joe Barrett, the handsome Irish-American veteran, with a delightful brogue, a quick wit, two Purple Hearts and four Bronze Stars, Kay announced that she planned to marry him. And marry him she did. Three years later, their only child, Ellen, was born. From that moment on, everything revolved around their daughter. When Ellen got engaged to Cassian Jae, her parents treasured the intelligent, compassionate, and dedicated man Ellen had selected as her life’s partner. Soon Elyse arrived and their blessings grew.

And no story of the Barretts would be complete without mention of their love for animals. There is always a friendly bark, a wagging tail and an exuberant greeting from a big furry friend when visiting their home.

Over the past few years, despite the challenges of her declining health, Kay enjoyed being with family, chatting with friends, catching up on the news, take-out dinners, saying the Rosary and going to Mass. Most especially, however, Kay cherished her special time with Elyse. She lit up watching Elyse excel in academics and musical theater. And every day, Kay reminded Elyse that she loved her “to the moon and back.” With a big smile and a hug, Elyse loved her right back. 

Family and friends are invited to join in honoring Kay at the Keohane Funeral Home, 785 Hancock St, Quincy, 02170 on Sunday, October 27, 2024 from 2pm to 5pm and at her Funeral Mass at St. Ann’s Church, (Divine Mercy Parish) 757 Hancock St., Quincy on Monday, October 28, 2024 at 10:30am. A private burial will be held following the Funeral Mass. 

In lieu of flowers, please say a prayer for Kay and make a donation to Companions of St. Anthony at www.companionsofstanthony.org or to a charity of your choice.