South Deerfield, MA – Kathryn E. Paciorek of North Grafton, formerly of South Deerfield, passed away peacefully at home with her family on September 11, 2026, after a period of declining health. She was 78 years old.
Kathy was born in Montague, MA in November of 1947. She spent her early childhood years in North Leverett, moving to Montague during elementary school. Though an only child, Kathy spent countless hours making mischief with her cousins, the Howard boys and forged strong sisterly bonds with cousins Diane, Jackie and Janet.
Upon graduation from Turners Falls High School, Kathy worked in the Forestry Department at UMass Amherst. It is there she met her first husband. They married in Oregon and moved to Northern Virginia, where Kathy proudly worked at the American Red Cross Headquarters in D.C.
Kathy returned to Western Massachusetts where she married Thomas Paciorek. Kathy and Tom made their home in South Deerfield, raising their two children. Kathy worked as a legal secretary in the Law Offices of Growhoski, Callahan and Miles for many years. She took great pride in her work at 60 State Street and considered those she worked with family. Kathy finished out her career in the legal department at Yankee Candle, retiring in 2012.
When not working, Kathy most enjoyed traveling. She and her husband Tom explored Europe, northern Africa and arguably her favorite destination, the Caribbean. Kathy especially enjoyed introducing her grandchildren to her many friends on St. Maarten, an island she loved. As Kathy’s health declined, she continued to enjoy reading, doing crossword puzzles, discussing politics with her grandson and learning about the latest fashion trends from her granddaughter. Kathy also looked forward to her daily visits from her favorite four-legged friend Ginger.
Kathy was predeceased by her husband Thomas Paciorek and her parents Paul and Virginia Wattles and John Bushway. Kathy is survived by her son Christopher Crevelling and his partner Cathy; her daughter Jennifer MacDonald and her husband Tim; her beloved grandchildren Noah and Caitlin MacDonald and her bonus daughter Anita Cooke.
Kathy was fiercely independent and strong-willed. In honor of her wishes, there will be no services. The family would like to thank the nursing staff of Notre Dame Palliative & Hospice Care. We are forever grateful for the comfort, kindness and humor shown to our family.
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