Kathleen C. Dalton, beloved wife, mother and friend entered eternal rest on February12, 2022 at home surrounded by the family that cherished her.  Kathy’s legacy is the way her family loves and cares for each other every day.

Born on March 14, 1931 in Woonsocket, Rhode Island to Raymond and Maude Connell, she enjoyed a loving childhood and was raised with her sister, Joanne. They frequented Fairmount Park, where Kathleen loved playing volleyball.  After graduating from Woonsocket High School, she began her career with New England Telephone and Telegraph until she married the love of her life, John Dalton (Jack) on August 21, 1954.  Jack’s career in education led them to Lowville, Syracuse and Glens Falls, NY, finally settling in Amherst, Massachusetts in 1965 where they raised their four children.

Kathy was a consummate homemaker, cook, gardener and bridge player while she lovingly cared for her family. Once the  children were in junior high school, Kathy returned to work and was the parish secretary at St. Bridget’s Church and then the administrative assistant to the Chair of the Math Department at UMass Amherst. Kathy had many friends including professors, staff, and students who appreciated her competence and kindness. Her exceptional skills were acknowledged by her receipt of the Chancellor’s Award which recognized truly outstanding  performance by university staff.

Kathy is a long time member of the Newman community where she enjoyed attending Mass, serving as a Eucharistic Minister, attending social events, and volunteering. 

Kathy leaves her beloved husband of 67 years, John R. Dalton, her sister Joanne M. Connell of East Providence, Rhode Island and four children:  John of Sydney, Australia (Kelsey and Reed); David and wife Lynn of Golden, Colorado (Hilary and Patrick Freeman, Matthew and great grandson Charlie); Trish Kozlowski and husband Paul of Lunenburg, MA (Emily and Steven Kemner, and Jake Kozlowski) and Ann MacKay and husband Rob of Berlin (Ryan Mackay, Alex MacKay, Cory MacKay and great grandson Tyler).

Kathy graciously lived with vascular dementia for over 16 years.  Her husband, Jack, was by her side every step of the way providing the most amazing care and support and often utilizing many of his skills as an educator.  It would have been impossible to care for Kathy at home until her final days without the exceptional and loving care of Mary Jane Scott who led a team of very special  caregivers. Our family is forever grateful for this gift.

A Memorial Mass at the Newman Center will be held on Wednesday February 16th at 10am to celebrate Kathleen’s life.  In lieu of flowers, gifts may be made to Cooley Dickinson Hospice in recognition of the outstanding compassionate care provided by Charlene and Karen. Memorial guestbook at www.douglassfuneral.com