04/01/2026
BRIGID WALSH GAFFNEY, of Woburn, formerly of Shanavooneen, Spiddal, Ireland, passed away peacefully at her home on March 31, 2026, surrounded by her loving and devoted family.
Born and raised in Spiddal, Co. Galway, Brigid immigrated to Boston in 1962, where she later met and married the love of her life, Hugh Gaffney of Manorhamilton, Co. Leitrim. Together, they shared 60 years of a loving and devoted marriage and built a beautiful life in Woburn, creating a home filled with love, faith, and unwavering devotion to their family.
Brigid devoted her life to raising her seven children, all of whom were blessed to have such a loving, caring, and compassionate mother who was always there through every stage of life. Selfless in every way, she gave her whole heart to her family. One of her greatest gifts was her ability to truly listen—she never judged, always made time, and gave her full attention, making everyone feel heard, valued, and deeply understood.
She found joy in life’s simple and meaningful moments—reading stories, singing Irish lullabies, and listening as her family shared the details of their day. She loved sunny afternoons with a gentle breeze, often sitting quietly and listening to the birds in her backyard. Summer was her favorite season, especially when it brought joyful gatherings, poolside laughter, Kool-Aid for the children, and plenty of Papa Gino’s pizza. She also had a special fondness for sweets and desserts, something she delighted in sharing with those she loved.
Known lovingly as “Mamo,” Brigid’s greatest joy was caring for her thirteen grandchildren. She was a constant and loving presence in their lives—from their earliest days through every milestone. She went above and beyond, becoming a second mother to them, offering guidance, comfort, and unconditional love. Among their most cherished memories are special lunch outings filled with laughter, shared secrets, and ice cream treats, along with long car rides and the warmth of her hugs and kisses.
She was predeceased by her beloved son William, her parents Liam and Mary, and her brothers Páraic and Michael.
In addition to her beloved husband Hugh, Brigid is survived by her children: Mary Papazian and Eric Cox of Andover; Hugh Gaffney and his wife Karen of Beverly; John Gaffney of Tewksbury; Colleen Herrera and her husband Wilson of Burlington; Michael Gaffney of Woburn; and James Gaffney and his wife Melissa of Bedford, New Hampshire.
She will be sadly missed by her brother Joe; her sister Mary; her many loving nieces and nephews; her neighbors; and a wide circle of dear friends.
She was the cherished and proud grandmother of Hugh, Owen, Maeve, Brynn, Gabriel, Alexandra, Kaylee, Keira, Gracie, Stephen, James Jr., Cassandra, and Connor, each of whom she adored beyond measure.
A Funeral Mass will be celebrated in the church, St. Charles, 280 Main Street, Woburn, on Tuesday, April 7th at 10:00 a.m.
Visiting hours will be held in the funeral home, Lynch-Cantillon, 263 Main Street, Woburn, prior to the Mass from 8:30 a.m. to 9:45 a.m.
Interment will follow in Woodbrook Cemetery.
Those unable to attend may view the Funeral Mass via livestream by visiting: https://sccwoburn.org/livestream
In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made in Brigid’s memory to the Alzheimer’s Association.
Ar dheis Dé go raibh a hanam dílis — may her gentle soul rest in peace.