Catherine P. O’Brien-Gear

Catherine P. “Cathy” (Broughton) O’Brien – Gear of Walpole, died April 16, 2020. The beloved wife of John T. Gear of Walpole and wife of the late Richard J. O’Brien. Cherished mother of Mark O’Brien of Canton, Michael O’Brien of San Rafael, CA and Matthew O’Brien and his wife Cathleen of Walpole. Loving stepmother of Shaun Gear and his wife Patricia of Raynham and Sharon Hough and her husband Dale of Stoughton. Daughter of the late William Broughton and Katie (Lombardi) Broughton. Devoted Nana of Nicholas, Jessica, Sarah, Allison, Anna, Richard, Audrey and Thomas O’Brien and Ryan and Colleen Gear and Joshua Hough. Cathy was the loving sister of Wilma Trioli of Malden, Patty Fuligni and her husband Agostino of Stoneham, and Eileen Pasquarello and her husband Theodore of Sudbury and her deceased sibilings the late James Broughton, Marie Moscatel, Nora Broughton, Anna Duggan, Joseph Broughton, Jane Loconto and Sheila Hudnall. Cathy had a wonderful sense of humor with a quick wit and charming personality. Nana loved and cherished all her grandchildren, showering them with hugs and kisses often. She enjoyed walks on the beach, especially the Bass River area and Smugglers Beach. In her free time, she enjoyed golf, gardening, taking pictures and arts and crafts. Cathy had a life long passion for poetry and always enjoyed her favorite poet Robert Frost. Catherine loved music and knew the words to almost every song. She grew up in a family of 11 children who frequently sang along with their mother Katie. She loved to dance especially the jitterbug. Cathy will be remembered as a great listener with a talent of supporting ideas of others especially young children. Her bubbly personality would light up every room she entered, especially when she smiled. Cathy will never be forgotten and will live on in our hearts forever.

In consideration of current events and keeping in mind our number one priority of protecting our families and our community, Cathy’s services are private. Normally, the funeral is an opportunity for the community to gather in support of one another. Although we cannot gather together with Cathy’’s family at this time, friends may still offer their support by sharing a special memory or message by clicking the link above.