Cota Family Funeral Home and Cremation Service

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North Reading, MA
Cota Family Funeral Home and Cremation Service

Our family serving your family in a time of need. Since 1932, Cota Funeral Homes has serviced families representing many faiths.

We have become familiar with the varied traditions in burying a loved one. Traditional services with visitation and burial:
Includes: Services of the funeral director and staff; transfer of the deceased from the place of death to the funeral home; embalming, if desired; use of facilities for viewing; funeral service to be conducted at the funeral home or place of worship; and procession to the cemetery. Traditional services and burial, without visitation:
Includes: Services of the funeral director and staff; transfer of the deceased from the place of death to the funeral home; embalming, if desired; funeral service to be conducted at the funeral home or place of worship; and procession to the cemetery. Traditional services with cremation:
Includes: Same as above two selections, except services end with cremation. Direct cremation:
Includes: Transfer of the deceased from place of death to the funeral home; procuring of all necessary permits and authorizations; and transportation to the crematory. Immediate burial:
Includes: Transfer of the deceased from place of death to the funeral home; procuring of all necessary permits and authorizations; and transportation to the cemetery. Memorial services:
Includes: Transfer of the deceased from place of death to the funeral home; procuring of all necessary permits and authorizations; and transportation to the cemetery or crematory; memorial services in the funeral home or church after cremation or burial without the deceased present. Cremains may be present at the memorial services. We are always open
to tailor any of the above services
to your specifications. We are also available to assist with
insurance papers, veterans and social security
forms and benefits.

12/29/2025

Roffi, Claire C. (Mancini) -Of Somerville. Beloved wife of the late Antonio Roffi. Mother of Michael Roffi and his partner Edgar Peraza or Somerville and the late Robert Roffi and his surviving wife Sherry of Somerville. Grandmother of Antonio Rocco, Jessica Ann and Stephen Michael Roffi. Claire is also survived by many loving nieces, nephews and extended family.

Claire was married to her childhood sweetheart for 65 years. They danced their way over the moon every week until Tony’s death in 2014. While socializing they gathered amazing group of friends who they cherished greatly. Claire was inspirational, very generous and treated people with dignity. As a mother she was “one of a kind!” The level of constant love, respect, guidance and support was unmatched. She will be missed greatly!

At the request of the family all services for Claire at the moment are being privately held. A Funeral Mass will be announced in the near future and will be held in Medford. www.cotafuneral.com

12/26/2025

Sergio Tortora – Age 87, beloved husband of Cornelia Tortora (Petrosillo), died peacefully surrounded by his family Saturday, December 20th at the Memorial Hospital West in Pembroke Pines, Florida.

He was born in Bisceglie, Italy on December 18, 1938, a son of the late Francesco and Isabella (Pedone) Tortora and lived in Italy before moving to Cambridge, Ma at the age of 17 and later moved to Somerville. He resided in Medford, Reading and then retired in Miramar Florida. He completed service in the United States Army in 1964.

Sergio owned and operated the former Gino’s Market in Somerville along with his brother Mauro prior to his retirement.
Sergio loved spending time with his family. He enjoyed watching soccer, digging for clams at Little Bird Island and gardening in Wareham and Miramar. He enjoyed spending his summers at Swifts Beach, Wareham, MA and the rest of the year in Miramar, FL.
He is survived by his wife Cornelia, Sergio is also survived by his children, Frank Tortora and his wife CrisAnn, Gerry Tortora, Sergio Tortora Jr and his fiancé Terri West and Elizabeth Tortora; his brothers John Tortora; his sisters, Maria Pellegrini, Josephine Frisiello; his four grandchildren, Nicholas, Alyssa, Matthew and Isabella and his great grandson Nicholas. He was the brother of the late Guilio and Mauro Tortora.

Visiting hours will be held Friday, January 2nd at the Cota Funeral Home, 335 Park Street, (corner of Park St. and Rte. 28) North Reading at Reading line from 4-7 pm. A prayer service and burial will be held Saturday January 3rd at 10am in Holy Cross Mausoleum, 175 Broadway, Malden, 02148. Please go directly to the Mausoleum. www.cotafuneral.com

12/24/2025

Chabot, George E. Jr. -Of North Reading, Dec.21st. Beloved husband of 63 years to Elaine (Briscoe). Father of Mark Chabot and his wife Kim of Andover, Michelle Mehr and her husband Seth of OR, Brian Chabot and his wife Ruth of Lynn and Kara DeGiovanni and her partner Luke Moore of OR. Grandfather of Nicolas, Mae, Amanda and Mazli. Brother of Ronald Chabot and his wife Helen of FL, Carol Bond of FL, and the late Elaine Watters. George is also survived by many loving nieces, nephews and extended family.

George was born and raised in Wi******er, MA and graduated from Wi******er High School in 1958. He got his BA from Harvard in 1961, Masters in Radiological Health from Harvard in 1968, and his PhD in Chemistry from University of Lowell in 1986. George served in the U.S. Public Health Service from 1963-1969 and worked for 30+ years at the University of Massachusetts Lowell (UML) as a professor, teaching and carrying out research in the Physics and Radiological Sciences programs. Referred to as a "Quiet Giant" in the field, he was a 55-year member of the Health Physics Society (HPS) and was recipient of the Founders Award in 2017. George said his work never felt like work, and he continued to be active in the field until his passing.

One of George’s most beloved pastimes was playing the trumpet in the Reading and North Reading civic bands for over 50 years. He was a tinkerer at heart, and in his later years, enjoyed fixing and reselling vintage trumpets. At home, George was well known in the family for preparing a myriad of tasty dishes. George's parents were devout Catholics, and his mother instilled in him an unwavering faith in Christ that guided him throughout his life. He led a weekly bible study online and served as an usher at St. Theresa's Church, where he worshipped for 58 years.

George was known as a brilliant, humble, patient, and kind person. He leaves a legacy of love, one that will live on through all the lives he touched.

Visiting hours will be Saturday Dec 27th from 9-11am at Cota Funeral Home, 335 Park St. (Rte. 28) NORTH READING, at Reading line. Funeral procession departs from the funeral home Saturday, Dec. 27th at 11:00am. Funeral Mass in St. Theresas Church, 63 Winter St. (Rte. 62), North Reading at 11:30am. Interment at Riverside Cemetery, North Reading. www.cotafuneral.com

12/19/2025

Assunta (Pisano) Sementa, 68, passed away peacefully in the comfort of her home on Wednesday, December 17, 2025 following a courageous battle with metastatic Pancreatic Cancer.

Born in Pratola Serra, Avellino, Italy on September 22, 1957, to Felice and Maria (Brogna) Pisano, she resided in North Reading, MA for 42 years. She is survived and greatly missed by her devoted husband, Romolo Sementa, her children, Gina (Sementa) Bohannan, Luigi Sementa, and Ornella (Sementa) Marshall. She was the adored sister of Antonio Pisano, and sister-in-law Anna Pisano of Stoneham, MA. She was also deeply loved by her son-in-laws, Sean Bohannan and David Marshall, her nieces and nephews, and cousins.

Assunta loved her husband 'Ronny' dearly. They were married for 48 years and made countless memories during that time. Their marriage was full of companionship, humor, and cherished moments. She came to America in 1978 to build a family and life that incorporated both American and Italian culture.

Her proudest title was that of “Mom." She adored her children more than anything and always put them first. Making memories and spending time together were her favorite times; she selflessly provided unconditional love and support to her kids that will live on forever. Second to being a Mother, Assunta was an amazing Nonna to her beloved grandchildren; Justin Mead, Jacob Mead, Joshua Mead, James Mead, Amelia Marshall, and Leon Marshall, and her great-grandchild, Juilianna Mead.

Assunta cherished the time she spent with those she loved, finding joy in simple yet meaningful things. Family meant everything to her and she always made sure you knew how much she cared for you.

Assunta had a passion for cooking; her meals were simply culinary masterpieces and every single person attending her gatherings left feeling full from both her meals and her love. Other passions included attending to her lively garden, enjoying a hot cup of espresso, traveling all over the world with her family and friends, hosting holiday gatherings (especially Christmas Eve Seven Fish Feast), getting together with past co-workers for coffee or lunch, and enjoying her Pokeno nights.

Although she faced a devastating diagnosis, she approached it with strength, determination, and optimism. Her family is forever grateful for her courage during that time.

Assunta passed in the home she and her surviving husband raised their children and grandchildren in, surrounded by love.

Relatives and friends are most respectfully invited to attend a Funeral Mass in St. Theresa's Church, 63 Winter St. (Rte. 62), North Reading on Monday, Dec. 22nd at 10am. Visiting hours at the Cota Funeral Home, 335 Park St. (corner of Park St. and Rte. 28) NORTH READING, at Reading line, on Sunday from 1-4pm. Interment private. Please omit flowers and make donations in Assunta’s name online at https://giving.massgeneral.org/donate/pancure
www.cotafuneral.com

12/10/2025

Obituary — James Roy “Jim” Bartlett
Surrounded by the love of his family, James Roy “Jim” Bartlett passed away on December 8, 2025, at the age of 81, leaving behind a lifetime of memories and a legacy of kindness. He was born on August 18, 1944, in Boston, Massachusetts, to Roy Bartlett and Margaret (McCarthy) Bartlett. He grew up in Jamaica Plain with his older sister, Joyce, and younger sister, Jean, in a neighborhood where friendships lasted a lifetime and community meant everything. Those early values of loyalty, kindness, and hard work shaped the man he became.

At age 20, Jim married Regine “Jean” Izzi, and together they raised three children: Janine (born September 1964), James Anthony (born May 1966), and Sandra (born July 1969). In 1967, the family moved to Foxboro, Massachusetts, where they spent six years before making homes in Lincoln and Acton. Jim and Jean later divorced in 1977.

In 1978, Jim married Cynthia “Cindy” Jones, beginning a new and cherished chapter of his life. A year later, they moved to Lynnfield, Massachusetts, where they welcomed two children — Jay (born August 1979) and Melissa (born October 1982). Lynnfield was home for more than 40 years, filled with laughter, milestones, and good neighbors who became close friends. In 2023, Jim and Cindy moved into a nearby apartment, remaining part of the community they loved. Jim and Cindy shared a remarkable 47-year marriage, Cindy being the love of his life.

Jim began his career in 1965 as a draftsman and quickly rose through the ranks, becoming Head of his Department at Raytheon Industries — a role that spoke to his talent, leadership, and dedication. During those early years, Jim also nurtured a passion for photography, working as a wedding photographer in his spare time — capturing joyful moments for others with the same care and attention to detail he brought to everything he did. He later joined Camera Stat Associates in Bedford, Massachusetts, before boldly stepping into entrepreneurship. In 1980, Jim co-founded ZBR, Inc. with partners Aaron Zohn, Hank Rosenblatt, and Les Boomhower. Under Jim’s leadership as Vice President of Production, ZBR grew into a highly successful printing company throughout the 1980s and 1990s, serving major clients such as Digital Equipment Corporation and IBM. As technology shifted and print gave way to digital solutions, the company evolved into GlobalWare — a transformation driven by the same innovation and adaptability that defined Jim’s career.

Outside of work, Jim lived for the people and passions that mattered most. A lifelong Boston Red Sox fan, he cheered faithfully through every season. He loved coaching youth baseball and basketball and spent many happy summers on the field and in the gym with his son Jay’s teams — teaching not just the game, but the importance of fun, effort, and sportsmanship.

His other great passion was spending summers at the family lake house in Barnstead, New Hampshire, a place filled with tradition and generations of memories. Jim was in his element there: waterskiing on the lake, fishing from the dock with his grandkids, raking the beach to perfection, and hosting barbecues for family and friends. The lake was where he felt most at peace — surrounded by laughter, nature, and the people he loved.
Jim was also a lifelong animal lover, a passion he shared with Cindy. Together, they cared for many dogs and cats over the years, and their family even kept horses in their barn, each one a beloved companion. Animals always trusted Jim — they seemed to know they were safe, valued, and part of the family with him and Cindy.
Nothing brought Jim more joy than his role as Papa, or “Grandpa Jim,” to his grandchildren. He is survived by his loving wife, Cindy; his children Janine, James Anthony, Jay, and Melissa; his sister Joyce; and his eight grandchildren, who will forever carry his legacy forward: Peter Anthony, Nicholas, and Serena, children of Janine and her husband Peter; Isaiah, Nolan, and Hendrix, children of Jay and his wife Iris; and Sean and Henry, children of Melissa and her husband Joe.

Jim was preceded in death by his parents, Roy and Margaret Bartlett; his sister Jean and her husband Kevin; and his daughter Sandra, whom he missed dearly.

Family and friends are invited to attend a Funeral Mass on Saturday, December 13, 2025 at 10:00 AM at St. Maria Goretti Church, 112 Chestnut Street, Lynnfield, MA 01940. Interment will follow at Puritan Lawn Memorial Park, 185 Lake Street, Peabody, MA 01960.

Jim’s presence was a gift — whether he was sharing a meal, a laugh, or lending a hand to those in need. Though he is no longer with us, the impact of his kindness, devotion, and generosity will continue to live on in our hearts and stories. He will be missed dearly, and remembered always.

Flowers are not permitted. For those who wish to honor Jim’s memory, donations to the Humane Society of the United States are greatly appreciated.
https://www.humanesociety.org/donate
www.cotafuneral.com

12/09/2025

Linda F. (Lepore) Sorbello passed away peacefully on December 6, 2025 at the age of 82. Born in Revere, she resided in her favorite “little town” of Reading for over 50 years.

Linda was the loving mother of Craig (Pam) of NH, Derek (Donna) of NH and Danielle (Michael) of NJ. She was also the adored sister of Carmen of NH and Anthony (Jeanne) of MA. Her proudest title was that of “Mammie” to Marlena, Zoe, Sienna, Ruby and Stella. She leaves behind a large loving family including cousins, in-laws, nieces and nephews, as well as many dear friends.

Linda had a zest for life and cherished the time she spent with those she loved. She found extreme happiness in simple yet meaningful things and was always up for any adventure big or small. Whether a trip along the coast (or anywhere she could convince someone to go), sharing a meal with a loved one, playing mahjong, entertaining in her Pottery Barn room, or simply chatting on the phone, she welcomed each day with such joy. Perhaps her calling in life should have been a personal shopper as she never met a Marshalls, HomeGoods or TJ Maxx she didn’t love. The thrill of a finding a “treasure” and sharing these moments, especially with her grandchildren, were some of her happiest times.

Linda was the heart of the family with her quiet strength, unconditional love and support, and her optimism and determination to live each day to the fullest. Her love for those around her and the memories she intentionally carved with each of us will be carried forever.

Relatives and friends are invited to visit with Linda’s family on Monday, Dec. 15th from 9am-12pm in the Cota Funeral Home, 335 Park St., (corner or Park St. and Rte. 28) North Reading at Reading line. A brief service will take place in the funeral home at noon, all are welcome. Interment will take place at a later date.

Please omit flowers and make donations to Dana-Farber Cancer Institute and the Jimmy Fund, P.O. Box 849168, Boston, MA 02284-9188. www.cotafuneral.com

12/06/2025

LINSCOTT, Ian Craig- of Germantown, OH, formerly of Sandown, NH, Coventry, CT and Reading, MA passed away unexpectedly on October 28,2025 at his home at the age of 61. Ian is survived by his loving parents Cyrus B. and Elaine (Norton) Linscott of Reading, MA, his beloved brother Daniel T. (Susan) Linscott of Littleton, MA, his nieces and nephews Danielle (Jeff), Luke and Lily Gallo of Toney, AL, Maj. Craig A. (Morgan) and Alaina Linscott of Lawton, OK and Peter J. Linscott of Winchendon, MA, along with his Aunt Marah L. Brehaut of CA, Uncle Patrick Norton of CT, his many cousins and his most beloved and adored German Shepherd Brandi.

Ian was a National Honor Society member graduate of Reading Memorial High School and played on the varsity hockey team. He went on to graduate from Clarkson University with a degree in Mechanical Engineering and was the captain of the Div. 1 JV hockey team. Upon graduation from Clarkson, Ian pursued a career in jet engine manufacturing with RTX Pratt & Whitney followed by GE Aerospace and then various GEA subsidiaries that brought him to CT, NH and OH during his career.

From Ian’s youth he loved anything that had wheels and went fast or featured a Miami Dolphins theme. He bought his first enduro-type motorcycle at the age of nine with his paper route money. He maintained that passion throughout much of his life by successfully competing in multiple classes of American Motocross Association (AMA) sanctioned race events and Sports Car Club of America (SCCA) ITS class racing events in his Mazda RX-7 race car at the various tracks throughout the Northeast and New England regions coupled with his rather unique collection of motor vehicles along with his extensive collection of Miami Dolphin’s paraphernalia that he acquired over the years.

Ian, who certainly marched to his own drum, will be remembered as the “I’m an engineer” guy, but that would do anything for someone in need of help. He had an especially big heart for the four-legged, furry friends that he rescued and brought into his home. He will be dearly missed by the many lifelong friends and relationships he made through his membership in the AMA, the SCCA and the Fraternal Order of Eagles, Germantown, OH Chapter 2292 and by those whom he mentored along the way through his shortened journey in life.

In lieu of flowers, donations in Ian’s name/memory may also be made to the Humane Society of Preble County, Mailing Address: P.O. Box 72 Eaton, Ohio 45320. or The Fraternal Order of Eagles #2292, 1273 W Market St, Germantown, OH 45327.
Relatives and friends are invited to attend visiting hours with Ian’s family on Dec. 11th in the Cota Funeral Home, 335 Park St., (corner of Park St. and Rte. 28), North Reading at Reading line for 4-7pm. A private burial will take place at Woodend Cemetery, Reading on Dec. 12th. www.cotafuneral.com

12/01/2025

Michael J. Celata, 87, passed away peacefully on November 29, 2025 in North Reading, MA.
Born on August 1, 1938 in Boston, Massachusetts to the late Anthony and Marie (Bonavera) Celata, Michael kept his family and faith at the center of his life, and he loved Boston sports—especially cheering on his beloved Boston College Eagles.
In 1969, Michael married the love of his life, Barbara (Cosentino). They lived in New Hampshire for a short time before moving to 5 Gloria Lane in North Reading to raise their family. Their home was a place of constant welcome, where birthdays, anniversaries, family reunions, and visits with old friends were celebrated with laughter and love. They took great joy in opening their doors to others, filling their home with good food, generous hospitality, and the kind of moments that will be cherished for generations.
He was deeply involved in his children’s youth sports, from getting his son, Michael, to early morning hockey practices to cheering proudly from the sidelines at his daughter Melissa’s softball games. He continued to support Michael’s athletic dreams into adulthood, proudly backing his pursuit of Division I soccer and regularly making the four-plus-hour drive to Albany, NY, just to watch him play.
Above all else, Michael treasured his role as Papa to his four grandchildren, Hannah, Matthew, Ava, and Giana. He delighted in every milestone his grandchildren achieved and took great joy in spending time with them, whether playing in the pool or hosting fun afternoons in the backyard. He loved spoiling them at Christmastime, treating them to sweet surprises from Winfrey’s, and never missed a chance to be first in the pickup line at The Little School. He loved texting his college grandchildren to celebrate the latest wins of their favorite professional and college teams. These grandchildren stand as a lasting part of Michael’s legacy, a reminder of the love and dedication he shared with his family.
Michael is survived by his wife of 56 years, Barbara; his daughter, Melissa Celata Cacciapaglia of Franklin, MA; his son, Michael Celata, and his wife, Jill, of North Reading, MA; and his brother, Donald Celata, and his wife, Hoa, of Alexandria, VA. He is also survived by his loving grandchildren, cousins, nieces, nephews, and extended family.
A funeral service to honor Michael’s life will be held at Cota Funeral Home, 335 Park St. (corner of Park St. and Rte. 28), North Reading, at the Reading line, on Friday, Dec. 5, at 1 p.m. Family and friends are warmly welcomed to visit with the family at the funeral home on Friday from 11 a.m. until the start of the service at 1 p.m. In Lieu of flowers please make donations in Michael’s name to the Gift Processing at National Kidney Foundation HQ, 30 East 33rd Street
New York, NY 10016. Interment will be private. For additional information, please visit www.cotafuneral.com

11/28/2025

Carol Frances Trainor passed away on November 19, 2025 in Wilmington, MA. She was born on January 24, 1935 to Agnes and Francis Trainor in Boston, MA. Carol grew up in Medford, MA. Later living in North Reading, Stoneham and Wilmington.

Carol worked at HP Hood LLC as a payroll manager for many years and Walgreens upon her retirement. She volunteered at Wi******er Hospital. Carol loved horses, crocheting and puzzles of all kinds. Carol enjoyed family gatherings and was always there to lend a hand at holiday dinners. She always looked forward to family visits.

For the past six and half years, Carol had resided at Windsor Place Assisted Living in Wilmington, MA where she made many friends and enjoyed many activities. She was often found at the puzzle table, playing bingo, doing arts and crafts or meeting friends for a good game of Rummikub. Carol’s family would like to extend a special thank you to all those at Windsor Place in Wilmington who were a part of Carol’s daily life and to those who helped care for her.

She is survived by her nieces Sue Ackroyd and her husband Dennis, Judy Pelrine, Jacki Colburn and her husband Bob, Denise Santoro and her husband Ignazio, and best friend of 55 years, Mary Gorrie. She also leaves several great nieces and nephews. Predeceased by her parents, cousins Doris Pelrine and her husband Robert and Terry Carpinella and his wife Ruth and her niece Cynthia Pelrine Hyslip.

Relatives and friends are invited to attend visitation for Carol on Dec. 13th from 10:30am thru 12pm in the Cota Family Funeral Home, 335 Park St., (corner of Park St. and Rte. 28) North Reading at Reading line. A brief service for Carol will be held at 12noon in the Funeral Home. Burial will be private at Oak Grove Cemetery in Medford.

In lieu of flowers donations can be made to: MSPCA 350 Huntington Avenue, Boston, MA 02130. Attention: Ashton’s Hope Fund, Nevin’s Farm, Methuen.
www.cotafuneral.com

11/24/2025

Michael Uva, beloved husband of Norma Uva, passed away on Wednesday, November 19, 2025, surrounded by his loving family, at the age of 90. Born in Avellino, Italy, he is the son of Domenic and Maria Uva.

Michael spent his childhood years in Italy before arriving in the United States in 1950 at the age of 15, settling in East Boston After completing his schooling, Michael entered the clothing and textile industry in Boston while also serving in the US National Guard. He later struck out on his own to open a tailoring business in Boston’s financial district in 1970, Pacifici of Boston, named after his early mentor Carl Pacifici. Working side by side at Pacifici with his wife Norma, and employing as many as 30 tailors at any given time, the tailor shop was a Boston fixture for over 30 years, serving customers until Michael and Norma retired. Mike and Norma were inseparable during their working years and throughout their retirement, moving to Reading, MA in 1990.

Michael enjoyed spending time with his family, traveling, cooking, and gardening. In his retirement years, hosting and cooking for his family including 4 children and their spouses, 9 grandchildren, and 8 great grandchildren was a regular occurrence at his home. He enjoyed nothing more than spending time with his family and he will be deeply missed.

In addition to being the husband of 68 years to Norma he is the devoted father of Michael Uva and his wife Yvonne, Richard Uva, Diane Giacalone and her husband David and David Uva and his wife Sharon. Cherished grandfather of Michael Uva and his wife Jennifer, Rebbeca Vasa and her husband Brian, Anne Uva, Christina Uva, Victoria Uva, Louis Dinunzio and his wife Shareena, Nina Richards and her husband Matthew, Nicholas Uva and Aria Uva and great grandfather of Alex, Ellie, Sydney, Sam, Mia, Antonia, Frankie and Anna.

Services for Michael will be held privately.

In lieu of flowers, Michael’s family asks that donations may be made in his memory online to the American Cancer Society. www.cotafuneral.com

11/17/2025

Mary Katherine Ronco- of North Reading, Nov. 10th at the age of 66 passed away quietly, surrounded by her loving family after a courageous and long fought illness.

Mary is the loving wife of 41 years to Scott Ronco. She was the loving and devoted mother of Joy and David Ronco. Mary is also survived by her sisters Terry, Anne, Eileen, Joanne and Lynn as well as many friends, extended family that find solace in their thoughts and prayers. Rest in peace Mary, you will be missed by all.

At this time, all services for Mary are being privately held and under the direction of the Cota Family Funeral Home and Cremation Service, North Reading. www.cotafuneral.com

11/17/2025

Kathleen “Kathy” Marie Chaloux, 68, cherished mother, wife, Nana, and the very best friend you could ask for, passed away on Friday, November 14, 2025, following a courageous battle with Alzheimer’s disease.

Born in Warwick, Rhode Island on December 8, 1956, to Francis and Gertrude Crudden, from a young age Kathy was determined to explore life beyond her home state. At 17, she proudly left Rhode Island to attend Northeastern University, where she studied Criminal Justice and fell in love with Boston’s vibrant culture and intellectual energy. She believed deeply in the power of education, often saying, “We don’t go to school to learn what to think, but how to think.”

Kathy earned her Juris Doctor at Boston University while raising two young children –impressively taking only one semester off following the birth of her daughter. Her commitment to learning and critical thinking shaped the lives of her three children, Chris, Kate, and Tim, whom she considered her greatest accomplishments and the loves of her life.

Kathy built an illustrious career in law, beginning at the Attorney General’s Office in Providence, Rhode Island, where she honed her legal skills writing briefs and litigating. She went on to practice labor and employment law at the Massachusetts Department of Revenue and later worked in the General Counsel’s office at the Massachusetts Water Resources Authority, retiring in 2021.
Wherever Kathy went, she made – and kept – friends who became family. From law school to every workplace, from her children’s schools to the dog park, she cultivated deep and lasting relationships with her signature philosophy: “Life is about who we love, and who we let love us.” She famously hosted the “Friends of Kathy Party,” bringing together friends from every chapter of her life to eat, drink, and be merry – sometimes with Botox and experimental facial treatments taking place right in the family living room.

Kathy reveled in life and truly lived large. She navigated its vicissitudes with eternal optimism, strength, perseverance, sharp wit, and a great sense of humor. She created homes in North Reading and later in Boston’s South End that radiated warmth and comfort – a revolving door of her friends and her children’s friends, all embraced under her guiding mantra, “All are welcome here.”
Kathy is survived by her devoted husband, Stanley; her son Christopher (Caitlin) of Amesbury; her daughter Kathryn (Thomas Paquin) of North Reading; and her five beloved grandchildren: Maeve, Otis, Tighe, Declan, and Aurora. Kathy is also survived by her sister Janice Warnock (Stanley) of Warwick, RI; and brothers Peter Crudden (Lois) of Warwick, RI, and Thomas Cru Dane (Mary) of North Carolina, as well as many nieces and nephews, whom she adored. She also leaves behind a wide circle of cherished friends with whom she shared many laughs, took fabulous trips, and enjoyed solving the world’s problems with – always over a glass of wine or cup of tea, especially her dear friend Kathleen Hagerty of Rhode Island.

She is preceded in death by her parents, and her beloved son Timothy, whom she has long looked forward to being reunited with.

Relatives and friends are invited to visit with Kathy’s family on Nov. 20th from 4 to 7pm in the Cota Family Funeral Home and Cremation Service, 335 Park St. (corner of Park St. and Rte. 28) North Reading at the Reading line. Her funeral will be held on Friday, Nov. 21st in St. Theresa’s Church, 63 Winter St. (Rte. 62) North Reading at 10:30am. PLEASE GO DIRECTLY TO CHURCH. Interment will be private. Please omit flowers, and make donations in her memory to the Alzheimer’s Association online at https://www.alz.org/manh
www.cotafuneral.com

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335 Park Street
North Reading, MA
01864

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+19786644340

Website

http://www.cotafuneral.com/

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Since 1932, Cota Family Funeral Home has serviced families representing many faiths. We have become familiar with the varied traditions in burying a loved one and have learned that times change and services do as well. We are here to assist you in making the passing of a loved one as stress free as possible by listening to your ideas and catering a service that fits not only your wants but also your budget. Below is just a list of some of the services we offer. Contact us at anytime to answer any of your questions. We know the pain of loosing a loved one first hand and know there is no simple way to say goodbye. Traditional services with visitation and burial: Includes: Services of the funeral director and staff; transfer of the deceased from the place of death to the funeral home; embalming, if desired; use of facilities for viewing; funeral service to be conducted at the funeral home or place of worship; and procession to the cemetery. Adaptive services and burial, without visitation: Includes: Services of the funeral director and staff; transfer of the deceased from the place of death to the funeral home; embalming, if desired; funeral service to be conducted at the funeral home or place of worship; and procession to the cemetery. Traditional services with cremation: Includes: Same as above two selections, except services end with cremation. Modest cremation: Includes: Transfer of the deceased from place of death to the funeral home; procuring of all necessary permits and authorizations; and transportation to the crematory. Immediate burial: Includes: Transfer of the deceased from place of death to the funeral home; procuring of all necessary permits and authorizations; and transportation to the cemetery. Memorial Cremation services: Includes: Transfer of the deceased from place of death to the funeral home; procuring of all necessary permits and authorizations; and transportation to the crematory; memorial services in the funeral home or church after cremation without the deceased present. Cremains may be present at the memorial services. We are always open to tailor any of the above services to your specifications. We are also available to assist with insurance papers, veterans and social security forms and benefits.

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