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Lynch - Cantillon Funeral Home, 263 MAIN Street, Woburn, MA (2025)

11/18/2025

FLORENCE “BONNIE” (DOHERTY) MCMANUS – a lifelong Woburn resident, died peacefully, surrounded by her family, on November 14th at the age of ninety-one. She was the beloved wife of the late Philip J. McManus Jr.

Born and raised in Woburn, Bonnie was a daughter of the late Edward and Florence (Marlowe) Doherty. She was a proud graduate of Woburn High School, Class of 1951. She continued her education at Chandler Business School for Women in Boston. Following her studies, Bonnie worked as a legal secretary for a prominent Boston law firm.

Bonnie met her husband, Philip, at a local dance, and the two were married in June of 1957. Deeply devoted to one another, they shared over sixty years of marriage, raising their family in Woburn and building a lifetime of love, partnership, and treasured memories. Together they welcomed four children and were later blessed with six grandchildren and six great-grandchildren.

She was the cherished mother of Philip J. McManus III and his wife Laurie of Woburn, Ann Cassidy and her late husband John of Foxborough, Ellen Greene and her late husband Scott of Florida, and Michael McManus of Woburn. Treasured grandmother of Philip IV, Patrick and his wife Theresa, Jennifer, John, Scotty, and Bailey, and the proud great-grandmother of six. Dear sister of Martha Burns of Tewksbury, and the late Edward and Daniel Doherty, and Anne Marie Moore. She is also survived by several loving nieces and nephews.

Family was always at the heart of Bonnie’s life. She loved vacationing at Corbett’s Pond, Hampton Beach, and throughout Maine. She enjoyed reading, gardening, cribbage tournaments, and spending time with her family. Bonnie was also committed to serving her community and proudly volunteered with Meals on Wheels.

A Funeral Mass will be celebrated in St. Charles Church, 280 Main Street, Woburn, on FRIDAY, November 21st at 10 a.m. Burial will follow in Woodbrook Cemetery. Relatives and friends are respectfully invited to Calling Hours PRIOR to the Mass from 8:30–9:45 a.m. in the Lynch-Cantillon Funeral Home, 263 Main Street, Woburn, MA 01801. Remembrances may be made in Bonnie’s memory to The Learning Center for the Deaf, 848 Central Ave., Framingham, MA 01701.

11/17/2025

RALPH F. LENTZ, SR. – of Woburn, passed away peacefully on November 13th, surrounded by his loving family, at the age of eighty-one.

Born in Boston on November 18th, 1943, Ralph was the son of the late John W. and Priscilla (Kemp) Lentz, and the beloved brother of the late John W. Lentz Jr., Priscilla “Dolly” Cugno, Jean Murphy, and Beverly Norris.

A proud graduate of the Woburn High School Class of 1962, Ralph went on to serve in the National Guard, 101st Engineer Battalion, for six years. He then began his career as a Product Control Manager at Kevlin Manufacturing Company, where he worked for twenty-three years. Ralph later joined Costco Wholesale, spending seventeen years in maintenance before retiring. Known for his strong work ethic, friendly presence, and humor, he was cherished by customers and coworkers alike, forming many lifelong friendships.

Ralph married his high school sweetheart, Loretta C. (Buonanno) Lentz. Devoted to one another for sixty-one years, they were truly inseparable. Together they made their home in Woburn, raising three sons and creating a life filled with love, laughter, and simple joys. Dancing to Elvis on Sunday mornings was just one of the countless moments that reflected their deep and enduring bond.

Ralph and Loretta loved to travel with family and friends—exploring Italy, relaxing on the beaches of Aruba, and camping along the S**o River in New Hampshire. Ralph also treasured his fishing trips “with the guys,” a tradition that brought him tremendous joy. An avid cribbage player, he taught many how to play his favorite game. He also looked forward to cheering on his beloved Red Sox and Patriots, especially during a winning season.

Affectionately known as “Big Ralph” and “Papa,” he placed his family at the center of his life. He never missed a game, event, or celebration involving his children or grandchildren. Always quick with a smile, Ralph had a warm, welcoming presence that uplifted everyone around him. A man of deep faith, he was a devoted communicant of St. Charles Church for many years. He was also a longtime and proud member of the Woburn Elks Lodge #908, serving for fifty years.

Ralph is survived by his loving wife, Loretta; his sons, John Lentz and his partner Lisa Gallagher of Fitchburg, Anthony Lentz and his wife Lee of Byfield, and Ralph Lentz Jr. and his wife Melissa of Tewksbury. He was the cherished grandfather of Nicholas Lentz; Samantha Rodriguez and her husband Jean; Anthony and Alden Lentz; and Georgi, Franki, Ralph III, Carmine, and Blaise Lentz; and the adored great-grandfather of Arya. Ralph shared his later years with his beloved Jack Russell terrier, Peggy, who brought him great joy. He is also survived by many loving nieces, nephews, and dear friends.

Ralph lived his life with integrity, strength, and compassion. A true gentleman, he was deeply respected, dearly loved, and will never be forgotten.

A Funeral Mass will be celebrated in St. Charles Church, 280 Main Street, Woburn, on Saturday, November 22nd at 10 a.m. Burial will follow in Calvary Cemetery, Wi******er. Relatives and friends are respectfully invited to pay their respects at the Lynch-Cantillon Funeral Home, 263 Main Street, Woburn, on Friday, November 21st from 4–7 p.m. In lieu of flowers, remembrances may be made in Ralph’s memory to St. Charles Church, 280 Main Street, Woburn.

11/15/2025

Barbara M. (Hearn) Forester, passed away unexpectedly at her home, with her husband Leo at her side. A longtime resident of Wilmington, Barbara was seventy-two years of age.

Born in Woburn, she was the daughter of the late Donald and Patricia (Eaton) Hearn. Raised in the South End section of Woburn, Barbara was educated in the Woburn Public Schools, graduating with the Class of 1970.

After graduating high school, Barbara journeyed westward. She spent time in California before heading to Hawaii, eventually returning to her hometown of Woburn in the early nineties. Through mutual friends, Barbara reconnected with an old high school friend, Leo Forester. Their relationship flourished, and in 2001 they were married. They had just celebrated their 24th anniversary.

Settling in Wilmington, Barbara became quite busy with her daily life. She enjoyed spending time with friends, traveling, lunches out, and tending to her flowers and garden. Barbara and Leo loved traveling together and spent many wonderful vacations cruising to different islands.

Holidays were a favorite time of year for Barbara. Her attention to detail made every celebration special, and she cherished hosting gatherings—welcoming family and friends not only during the holidays, but throughout the year.

Summer months were filled with fun in their backyard, complete with pool parties, lobster bakes, cookouts, and birthday celebrations that were always a given. “Nana” absolutely adored her grandchildren. Time spent with them was captivating and joyful—whether at family dinners, cheering them on at their various games and activities, or enjoying sleepovers at home. These moments were precious to her, and she always looked forward to them.

Barbara’s passing was sudden and has left a profound void in the hearts of all who loved her. Her legacy of family, love, laughter, and adventure will continue to live on in all who had the privilege of knowing her.

Sadly, she was predeceased by her parents, Donald and Patricia (Eaton) Hearn.

Beloved wife of Leo F. Forester. Dear stepmother of Craig L. Forester and his wife Tina of Wilmington, and Candice L. Honan and her husband Michael of Tewksbury. Cherished “Nana” of Craig, Drew, Charlotte, and Magnolia. Loving sister of Donald Hearn and his wife Joan of Chelmsford and sister-in-law of Joseph Forester and his wife Kathleen of Wi******er, and the late Carl Forester of Woburn. Barbara is also survived by many loving nieces, nephews, and a large circle of devoted friends who will miss her dearly.

“Goodbyes are not forever, not the end; it simply means I’ll miss you until we meet again.”

A Funeral Service will be held in the Lynch-Cantillon Funeral Home, 263 Main Street, Woburn, on Tuesday, November 18th at 11 a.m. Interment in Calvary Cemetery, Wi******er. Relatives and friends are respectfully invited to calling hours from 9–10:45 a.m. PRIOR to the service.

11/12/2025

MARCIA A. (BOWMAN) BEES – of Woburn, passed away peacefully, November 10th, surrounded by her loving family, at the age of eighty-seven.

Born and raised in Arlington, MA, Marcia was the daughter of the late Alfred and Margaret (Rileigh) Bowman. She was a proud graduate of Arlington High School.

After high school, Marcia began her career with the telephone company, where she worked until starting her family. Once her children were grown, she resumed her career at Jordan Marsh, later Macy’s, where she worked for over twenty-five years.

Marcia was a devoted wife, mother, and grandmother. She dedicated her life to caring for her family and took great joy in every moment spent with them. She was a wonderful cook who loved bringing everyone together around the table. An avid reader, she also enjoyed traveling with her beloved husband, Frank — especially their cruises and many trips to their favorite destination, Turks and Caicos. Marcia also cherished summer vacations spent with her family in Wells, Maine, a place that held many happy memories.

Beloved wife of the late Francis X. “Frank” Bees, Jr. Devoted mother of Michelle A. Bees and her husband William Mayfarth of NJ, Mary Ellen Aylward and her husband Raymond of GA, Deidre A. Gillette and her husband Richard, and Jane E. Ventresca and her husband Michael, all of Woburn. Loving sister of Richard Bowman and his wife Lois of CA, Alfred Bowman and his wife Pat of TX, and Barbara Yanity and her late husband Gene of PA. Dear sister-in-law of Bonnie D. Atzl and her husband Josef of Belmont, and John Bees and his wife Sue of Beverly, and the late Ann Hallahan, her husband Frederick Hallahan and his wife Jan of MD, and the late Judy Bees. Cherished “Nanny” of Brittany, Alex and his wife Paige, Nicholas and his wife Michelle, Philip, Samuel, Kelli, and her husband John, and great-grandmother of Leila, Kiera, and Ian. Also lovingly survived by many nieces and nephews.

A Funeral Mass will be celebrated in St. Barbara’s Church, 138 Cambridge Rd., Woburn, on Thursday, November 13th at 10 a.m. Interment to follow in Calvary Cemetery, Wi******er. Relatives and friends are respectfully invited to call prior to the Mass from 8:30–9:45 a.m. in the Lynch-Cantillon Funeral Home, 263 Main Street, Woburn, MA 01801. Remembrances may be made in Marcia’s memory to Special Olympics of Georgia/COBB, 1885 Roswell Road, Smyrna, GA 30080.

11/10/2025

Paul, fondly known by many as “Snookie”, passed away peacefully, leaving behind a legacy of resilience, hard work, and quiet strength.

A proud Army veteran, Paul served during the Vietnam War era and in the Army Reserves as a heavy artillery mechanic. Following his military service, he dedicated many years to his professional life, first working in the family business, then as a truck driver for Roberto Trucking, and later as a paint specialist for RCA/General Electric until his retirement.

Paul’s lifelong passion for cars began in his youth, working alongside his father at the family business, Riga’s Auto Body. There he honed his skills in auto detailing, painting, and mechanics—talents he carried through life and applied to his own collection of vintage cars. A devoted NASCAR fan, he found joy in every rev of an engine and every race day thrill.

Though a private person, Paul cherished time spent with his many friends and was often seen enjoying a good night out at various organizations around Woburn and Stoneham.

Life’s journey was not without its challenges, yet Paul met them with quiet perseverance. He remained especially close with his son, Paul Jr., whose care and companionship were constants in his life. He also enjoyed many happy years with his cats Freddie & Sonny.

Paul’s story is one of individuality and endurance, remembered with dignity and affection by all who knew him. He is survived by Paul J. Riga, Jr., his partner Nancy Kinney of Woburn and Cynthia Tenney, her husband John of Marlborough who honor his memory in their own ways and carry forward the story of his life. Beloved son of the late Paul Riga and Mary (Saulnier) Riga. Dear brother of Donna Parker, her husband Melvin of Florida. Grandfather of Nicolas Ruggiero, his wife Brianna of Marlborough and Matthew Ruggiero, his wife Charlotte of Waltham. Uncle of Sarah Fawcette, Michael Parker, and Brian Parker. Paul is also survived by his longtime loving companion Annemarie Martini-Collins of Woburn

May he find peace in eternal rest and may those who knew and loved him find comfort in reflection and remembrance.

A Graveside Service with Military Honors will be held on Thursday, December 4th at 11 A.M in Woodbrook Cemetery. Arrangements are under the direction of the Lynch-Cantillon Funeral Home, 263 Main Street, Woburn, MA 01801.

11/07/2025

Elizabeth “Betty” (Garry) Finch – a resident of Woburn and formerly of Wi******er – passed away peacefully on November 6th at the age of ninety. She was the beloved wife of the late John J. Finch, with whom she shared sixty-six wonderful years of marriage.

Born in Boston, Betty was the cherished daughter of the late Martin and Elizabeth (Shea) Garry, proud immigrants of Ireland. She was raised in Arlington, where she grew up surrounded by faith, family, and the traditions of her Irish heritage.

After meeting her longtime love, John, the two married and began their life together. Following John’s honorable discharge from the service, they settled in Wi******er, where they made a warm and welcoming home and lovingly raised their family.

Family was the center of Betty’s world. She dedicated her life to nurturing and caring for her children, and her devotion extended far beyond her own household. Over the years, she opened her heart and home to more than forty-nine foster children, offering each one compassion, structure, and unwavering love. As her grandchildren and great-grandchildren arrived, she delighted in babysitting them, forming deep and lasting bonds with each new addition to the family.

Betty had an adventurous spirit and enjoyed traveling with John. Together they visited England and Ireland, embracing their family roots and creating treasured memories abroad. In retirement, they spent time in Arizona, where Betty became a proud member of the Red Hats and formed many close friendships. Later, they traveled the country by RV, exploring new places and enjoying the freedom of the open road. She also cherished her summers at Owl’s Nest in Wells, Maine, where she enjoyed peaceful days surrounded by family and friends.

Creative by nature, Betty was very crafty and loved sharing her talents. She hosted numerous art classes, bringing joy, laughter, and inspiration to those around her. Above all, she will be remembered as caring, loving, strong, and selfless — a woman who touched countless lives with her warmth and generosity.

Devoted mother of Elizabeth Fulwider and her husband Herman “Tony” of Woburn, John Finch Jr. and his wife Linda of South Carolina, James Finch and his wife Debbie of Arizona, Daniel Finch and his wife Gladys of California, Patricia Dulong and her husband Steven of Woburn, Annmarie Spurr of Groton, Jason Finch of Indiana, and the late Martin Finch.

Dear sister of Joan F. Stewart and her husband George of Woburn, the late Martin Garry and his late wife Mary, the late Mary “Sissy” Molloy and her late husband Robert and the late James Garry and his wife Suzanne of FL.

Cherished grandmother of 28, great-grandmother of 22, and foster mother to more than 49 children. Betty is also survived by many loving nieces and nephews.

A Funeral Mass will be celebrated in St. Charles Church, 280 Main Street, Woburn, on FRIDAY, November 14th at 10 a.m. Burial will follow in Wildwood Cemetery, Wi******er. Relatives and friends are respectfully invited to pay their respects at the Lynch-Cantillon Funeral Home, 263 Main Street, Woburn, on THURSDAY, November 13th from 4-7 p.m.

11/04/2025

JOHN “JACK” J. FLANAGAN III – Ret. Arlington Police Dept., of Woburn, passed away suddenly at The VA Hospital in West Roxbury, Thursday, October 30th, 2025, with his beloved wife of 44 years, Diane M. (Murphy) Flanagan, by his side.

Born in Cambridge, Jack was the son of the late John and Anne Marie (Manley) Flanagan. He was raised in Arlington and graduated from Matignon High School in 1965. Jack was drafted into the United States Army, where he proudly served his country during the Vietnam War.

Stationed in Ft. Lewis, Washington, he served with the 1198th RA Unit. He attained the rank of First Lieutenant and was honorably discharged in 1970. For his service, he was awarded the Silver Star Medal, 5 Bronze Star Medals, one with Valor, Purple Heart, Air Medal, Army Commendation Medal, National Defense Service Medal, Vietnam Service Medal, and Vietnam Campaign Medal.

Upon his return, Jack began working as a manager of a bar, where his quick wit, and humor, made him a friend to all. This was also where Jack was introduced to Diane Murphy from Cambridge, whom he married, and journeyed over the next forty-four years together.

In 1977, Jack began a long, distinguished and dedicated career with the Arlington Police Department, serving his community with a great amount of pride and integrity during his tenure. A hardworking gentleman both in and out of uniform, Jack retired in 2002.

Bringing two sons into the world, they would often spend vacations and summers at their home in Alton, NH on Sunset Lake. This was the place to relax, enjoy, and share fun times with family and friends.

A lifelong sports fan, Jack especially loved football, and a good game of cribbage with his friends. Jack also had a passion for deep sea fishing. These adventures on the ocean, and ocean only, brought in a great number of fish, that would be filleted and given away to family and friends. Jack also loved to cook. When it came to holidays, Jack was always in the kitchen. Clams casino and homemade raviolis were a favorite.

Above all, Jack was a devoted husband, father, brother and “Grandpa”. His warmth, humor, and generosity touched everyone he met. Jack will long be remembered for his loyal heart, his love of family and friends, and the countless good times and laughter he created for those around him.

Jack was a proud member of the Elks, American Legion, VFW, Sons of Italy, and the Orient Heights Yacht Club.

Jack was predeceased by his parents, John and Anne Marie Flanagan.

In addition to his wife Diane, Jack is survived by his sons, John J. Flanagan IV, his wife Cora, of Leominster, and Michael L. Flanagan, U.S. Air Force, his wife Amber, of Las Vegas, NV. Cherished “grandpa” of Rosie, Camryn, John V, and Malachi. Beloved brother of Mary Nawn, her husband Ernest “Ernie,” and William “Bill” Flanagan, his wife Jeanne, all of Arlington. Also survived by many loving nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.

A Funeral Service will be held in the Lynch-Cantillon Funeral Home, 263 Main Street, Woburn, on Friday, November 7th at 11 A.M. Relatives and friends are respectfully invited to Calling Hours, in the Funeral Home, PRIOR to the Service, from 9–11 a.m. Please, at the family’s request, in lieu of flowers, remembrances may be made in Jack’s honor to the Fisher House Foundation, PO Box 791598, Baltimore, MD 21279 or FisherHouse.org

11/04/2025

DANIEL M. BRADLEY – of Woburn, died peacefully with his family by his side, October 31st, after a courageous battle with cancer, at the age of seventy-six.

Born and raised in Somerville, Dan enjoyed a wonderful childhood that was filled with family love, school events, and sports. At the age of 14, he pitched a no-hitter for the Indians in the Somerville baseball league. After graduating from Somerville High School, he proudly enlisted in the United States Army, serving his country during the Vietnam War with Company C, 2nd Battalion, 46th Infantry, 1st Armored Division, Fourth U.S. Army, and was stationed at Fort Hood, Texas. He was honorably discharged in 1970 after earning multiple commendations, including the National Defense Service Medal, Vietnam Service Medal with four Bronze Service Stars, Republic of Vietnam Campaign Medal, and the Combat Infantryman Badge.

Shortly after returning home from Vietnam, Dan met the love of his life, Elaine F. (Crowley) Bradley, at a local dance. The two married and lived in Arlington, Wakefield, Revere, and Woburn. They ultimately settled in Woburn, where they raised their family in the warmth and joy of their home on Warren Avenue. They were a vibrant couple that traveled frequently, cared deeply about their children, and loved listening to music together.

Dan built a long and successful career as a manager at the Telephone Company for over thirty years, where his strong work ethic and leadership earned him the respect and friendship of his colleagues. He also served as a board member for the Telephone Workers Credit Union. Dan spent one year as a postal carrier and coached a few baseball and football sports teams in the local community. He was an avid Boston sports fan. After his retirement, he enjoyed a quieter life, filled with the things he loved most — watching sports, reading novels and historical books, following horse racing, visiting casinos, and spending time with his family. Dan was faithful to his daily prayer and loved the holidays.

A devoted husband, father, and grandfather, Dan will be remembered for his kindness, humor, and steadfast love for his family. His loyalty and caring nature made him beloved by all who knew him.

Beloved husband of the late Elaine F. (Crowley) Bradley. Devoted father of Daniel M. “Danny” Bradley and Timothy H. Bradley, both of Woburn, and Alyson M. Bradley, of Groveton, New Hampshire. Cherished grandfather of Alexy W. Fonseca of Methuen. Loving son of the late Hugh J. and Maude A. (Bartlett) Bradley. Dear brother of Robert Bradley, Joseph Bradley, and Donna Wingate, all of Medford, and the late Bernard Bradley, Dorothy McKenzie, Elizabeth Sousa, and Charles Bradley. He is also survived by his dear girlfriend, Robin Aucella, and many loving nieces and nephews.

A Funeral Mass will be celebrated in St. Charles Church, 280 Main Street, Woburn, on Thursday, November 6th at 10 a.m., with military honors to follow. Burial will take place at the convenience of the family. Relatives and friends are respectfully invited to pay their respects prior to the Mass, from 8:30–9:45 a.m., in the Lynch-Cantillon Funeral Home, 263 Main Street, Woburn, MA 01801.

10/30/2025

🍂 Thanksgiving Food Drive 🍂
Help us fill a table and warm a heart this Thanksgiving! 💛

Lynch-Cantillon Funeral Home is collecting non-perishable food and canned goods to support the Woburn Council of Social Concern and help local families in need this holiday season.

📍 Drop-Off Location: Lynch-Cantillon Funeral Home
📅 Now through November 20th

Every donation—big or small—makes a difference. 🥫🧡
Check out the wish list of most-needed items.

Let’s come together as a community to make sure every family has a meal to share this Thanksgiving. 🦃

10/29/2025

KEVIN R. SULLIVAN – a resident of Woburn, passed away peacefully on October 24th, surrounded by his family, at the age of sixty-nine.

Born in Malden and raised in Woburn, Kevin was a son of the late James C. Sullivan and H. Joan (Josephson) Sullivan. Kevin was a jack-of-all-trades and brilliant problem solver. His career was marked by his dedication and leadership, working as the Operations Manager for Simon Mall in Burlington until retiring to focus on his health and spend time with family.

Kevin had a deep love for animals, especially rescuing those in need. His compassionate nature extended beyond his professional life, as he was known for his kindness and willingness to help others. In his free time, Kevin was an avid woodworker, enjoyed fishing, and spending moments with his family and friends, often sharing stories that brought laughter and joy to those around him.

Kevin is survived by his beloved wife of 18 years, Lynn (Raffael) Sullivan. And will be deeply missed by his children, Heather and Katie Sullivan, Jennifer Lennon, her husband John, and Joshua Hart, all of Woburn. Cherished grandfather of Will Dolata. Dear brother of Elsa J. Mathew of CT, Eric J. Sullivan and his wife Valerie of Billerica, and Timothy J. Sullivan and his wife Deanna of Wakefield. He is also survived by numerous loving nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends, along with his cherished cats, Jack and IceLynn.

A Funeral Mass will be Celebrated at St. Anthony’s Church, 851 Main St., Woburn on TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 4th at 10 a.m. Interment to follow in Woodbrook Cemetery, Woburn. Relatives and friends are cordially invited to Calling Hours on MONDAY, November 3rd, from 4 to 7 p.m. at the Lynch-Cantillon Funeral Home. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to The Kevin R. Sullivan Legacy Fund to support research in metastatic bone disease, or, Save A Dog in Sudbury, MA

10/27/2025

Letitia “Letty” Frances (Wait) McGrath, age 91, passed away peacefully on Friday, October 24, 2025, at Benchmark in Woburn. She was the beloved wife of the late Leonard C. McGrath, with whom she shared 56 wonderful years of marriage.

Born and raised in Cambridge, Letty was one of five children of the late Albert J. and Margaret (Mahoney) Wait. A graduate of St. John’s High School and Salem State College, she began her career as an elementary school teacher in Arlington before dedicating herself full-time to raising her family.

Through a close circle of friends, she met the love of her life, Lenny, and together they built a beautiful life filled with faith, family, and adventure. Summers on Cape Cod, cross-country camping trips, and years of travel—especially during their retirement—brought them countless joyful memories.

Deeply devoted to her faith, Letty spent more than twenty-five years at St. Barbara’s Parish, where she taught and later served as Director of the CCD program, earning her M.Ed. in Religion and becoming a respected and beloved presence within the parish community.

Family was the center of Letty’s world. Known as “Nana” to her fourteen cherished grandchildren, she treasured Sunday spaghetti dinners, proudly attended their games and school events, and supported them with endless love, encouragement, and devotion.

Letty will be remembered for her warm heart, her unwavering faith, and her gift for making everyone feel valued, heard, and cared for. Her legacy is one of love, kindness, and faith lived fully.

She is survived by her loving children: Leonard McGrath Jr. (Lisa) of Danvers, William McGrath (Laura) of Woburn, Albert McGrath (Linda) of Londonderry, NH, and Letitia Howard (Scott) of Norwell, as well as her adored grandchildren Ryan, Brenna, Sean, Mitchell, Brandon, Connor, Cassidy, Samantha, Joseph, Hannah, Katherine, Michael, Christina, and Dylan. She was predeceased by her parents and siblings and leaves behind many nieces, nephews, lifelong friends, and caring neighbors.

A Funeral Mass will be celebrated at St. Barbara’s Church, 138 Cambridge Road, Woburn, on Thursday, October 30th at 10 a.m. Interment will follow in Woodbrook Cemetery. Relatives and friends are respectfully invited to calling hours on Wednesday from 4–7 p.m. at the Funeral Home. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Letty’s memory to Compassionate Care Hospice, 800 W. Cummings Park, #3100, Woburn, MA 01801.

10/21/2025

STEPHEN R. DAGATA JR. – of Danvers, formerly of Woburn, passed away on October 18th at the age of eighty-two.

Born and raised in Woburn, Steve (“Stevie” to some) was the beloved son of the late Stephen R. and Adeline M. (Petrillo) Dagata. He graduated from Woburn High School and later attended Boston University. In 1964, he was drafted into the US Army and served his country during the Vietnam War until he was honorably discharged.

Steve was a dedicated co-owner of the family business, Woburn Steel Drum Inc., and worked diligently until his retirement. He cherished his family and enjoyed gatherings and holidays throughout the year. He especially loved events like weddings, anniversaries and parties where he could reconnect with the extended family. He knew many people around Woburn and was quick to reminisce about the old days. Steve loved seeing the children of the family growing up.

As a proud veteran and member of the VFW, Steve would often visit the VA in Bedford and West Roxbury for follow-ups and medical visits where he met many veterans and caregivers, always sharing stories. He often mentioned giving candy to the local families in Vietnam. This demonstrated his character as he brought courage, generosity and heart, even during troubled times.

Steve was a proud Leo and had a passion for astrology, often recalling people’s zodiac signs even if he couldn’t remember their names. If someone was having a bad stretch, he would be quick to know if Mercury was retrograde. People would often seek his advice and perspective on life and relationships.

Steve expressed his artistic creativity by decorating for the seasons, adding flair to his Escalade, and putting his personal touch on family homes over the years. He loved music, dancing, spending time at the beach and dining out with family and friends. You might also find him at a local Dunkin’ in Danvers or Woburn getting coffee and treats.

On his 80th birthday, he proudly celebrated with the slogan “80 years, no fears.”

Known for his sociable nature, Steve made friends wherever he went. Most were surprised by his true age, believing he was younger, which always made his day. His generosity, kind spirit and infectious smile left an impact on everyone he encountered. He had a unique ability to make everyone feel valued and cherished. Steve will be remembered fondly by all who knew him.

Steve is survived and will be deeply missed by his loving children, Deirdre Dagata, and Stephen R. Dagata III, his fiancé Heather Sabian, all of Dracut, formerly of Woburn. Former husband and loving friend of Barbara Dagata of Nashua. Dear brother of Anthony J. Dagata, his wife Karen, of Woburn, Joseph A. Dagata of Perris, CA and Marion A. Harris, her husband Carl, of Woburn. Also survived by many cherished nieces, nephews, grand-nieces, grand-nephews, cousins and friends.

A Funeral Service will be held in the Lynch-Cantillon Funeral Home, 263 Main Street, Woburn on FRIDAY, October 24th, at 10 a.m. Interment and full military honors will follow in Woodbrook Cemetery, Veterans Lot. Relatives and friends are respectfully invited to Calling hours in the Funeral Home on THURSDAY from 4 – 7 p.m. In lieu of flowers, remembrance may be made in Steve’s memory to the Friends of Woburn Veterans, 144 School Street, Woburn, MA 01801.

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