Kathleen A. (O'Leary) Marotta, 80, of Dartmouth, Massachusetts, passed away peacefully on March 27, 2025.

 

She was born on January 10, 1945, in New Bedford, Massachusetts, daughter of the late Michael John O'Leary and Claire (Earley) O'Leary. Kathleen lived in Alaska in the 1970s, where she met the love of her life, Charles, before eventually returning to Massachusetts. She spent the last year of her life in New Jersey with her daughter. 

 

A devoted nurse, Kathleen had a kind heart and a generous spirit, making friends everywhere she went. She had a deep love for the holidays, the beach, and the Boston Red Sox. She also had a passion for collecting, filling her home with cherished teddy bears, Disney memorabilia, and intricate village pieces. An avid shopper, she loved going out and finding joy in the little things.

 

Throughout her life, Kathleen adored dogs and always had one by her side until the final year of her life. She was a loving mother and a loyal friend, and her warmth extended beyond her family to the many friends she considered chosen family.

 

Kathleen was predeceased by her beloved husband, Charles Marotta, in 2023; her stepson, John; her brother, Mike, and his wife, Jean; and her nephews, Mark and Michael. She is survived by her daughter, Kara, and Kara's partner, Monica; her great-nephews, Mikey and Matthew; her "second daughter," Lyette, along with the Thibault family, who were a cherished part of her life; as well as many nieces, nephews, and cousins.

  

Her Funeral Mass will be held on Monday, April 7, 2025 at 11 a.m. at the Holy Name of the Sacred Heart of Jesus Church, 121 Mt. Pleasant St., New Bedford. Burial will follow in St. Mary's Cemetery. Visiting hours will be Sunday, April 6th from 4-6 p.m. in the Saunders-Dwyer Home for Funerals, 495 Park St., New Bedford. For directions and guestbook, visit www.saundersdwyer.com.