Catherine M. Sheehan

Catherine M. (Rourke) Sheehan, 82, of Longmeadow died Saturday, September 9, 2023, peacefully in the comfort of her home. Catherine, a daughter of the late Joseph and Dorothy (Dillon) Rourke was born in Springfield, MA on April 27, 1941. Raised in Springfield and the oldest of five children, she graduated from Cathedral High School and received her associates degree from Bay Path College, Longmeadow, MA where she served as the president of the Newman Club.

She was a resident of Longmeadow for most of her life. In addition to her parents, she was predeceased by her husband John L. Sheehan, a sister, Christine Fiorentino, and a dear son in law, Thomas Collins. She leaves two sisters; Constance D. Noyes and her husband J C. of Bethlehem, and Alison M. Rourke and her husband Gerald Azzinaro of Boston, a brother, Joseph T. Rourke, Jr. and his loving companion Judith A. Stacy of Monson, a sister-in-law, Shirley Dorsey of East Longmeadow, and four children: Tracy (David) of Springfield, Jennifer of Springfield, John of Enfield and Amy (William) of Falmouth. She also leaves her nine beloved grandchildren, and several nieces and nephews. Catherine had five great grandchildren, and most recently, was able to welcome a new great granddaughter to our family.

Catherine was a resident of Longmeadow for most of her life and her town brought her much joy; especially Storrs Library where she would go to read the New York Times each week, and her wonderful best friends that made up her book club that she was a member of for nineteen years. Catherine worked as a homemaker and dedicated much time to helping others. She delivered meals for Meals on Wheels and helped at the Longmeadow Senior Center providing rides to and from appointments. She spent many hours visiting with people who needed her, whether it was reading to a friend who had lost her sight or caring for her grandchildren where she always had an active role in their lives. Catherine was a friend to many and took this role seriously. She had a standing Tuesday night call with her oldest friend with whom she met in seventh grade.

Catherine was extremely generous with her time and her love for those in her life. Catherine was always up for an adventure and enjoyed many trips to Maine and Cape Cod. She was an avid reader and enjoyed playing card games where she would habitually have bragging rights as the winner. Catherine had the gift of making us all feel loved and touched by her many kindnesses.

Visiting hours for Catherine will be held on Friday, September 15, 2023, from 9:00-10:00 AM at Forastiere Smith Funeral Home 220 N. Main St. East Longmeadow, MA. A funeral mass will follow at 11:00 a.m. at St. Mary’s Church, 519 Longmeadow St. Longmeadow MA.

In lieu of flowers memorial contributions in Catherine’s memory may be made to the St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, an organization that helped Catherine to feel brave as she reflected on the many children courageously facing cancer. 501 St. Jude Place • Memphis, TN 38105. Memorial contributions can also be made to the Holy Cross Sandwich Ministry, 221 Plumtree Rd. Springfield, MA 01118