Dr. Kathleen Curran Girard, 78, passed away on June 7, 2025, in Bellevue, Washington. Known to most as Kathy, she lived a life full of compassion, creativity, and quiet strength. She was deeply devoted to her family and friends, her work, and to the hope of making the world a little more just and kind.

Kathy spent over twenty years as a school psychologist in the Newton Public Schools, where she was a steady presence for students and a trusted partner for teachers. She had a gift for seeing what children needed, for listening without judgment, and for helping others do the same. Her warmth, intelligence, and unwavering care left a lasting imprint on the school community and on so many young lives.

Her love for children carried through every part of her life. She completed therapy dog training with her poodle, Whiskey, and together they visited schools and children’s homes, bringing comfort and delight to those they met. She had a true talent for choosing just the right gift, especially for children, and made people feel seen and remembered through even the smallest gestures.

In retirement, Kathy embraced her artistic side. She returned to painting and drawing with joy and curiosity and began teaching art classes in her retirement community. She also kept music close to her heart, learning to play the tin whistle and ukulele, encouraging her grandchildren’s musical adventures, and joining the Sudbury Opera Lovers group with enthusiasm.

Kathy shared a quiet but steadfast devotion with her husband of 45 years, Dennis Girard. Their long partnership was built on shared values, humor, generosity, and a love of learning. She spoke of him often after his passing and carried his memory with her always.

Kathy was deeply attentive to the world around her. She took pride in her Irish and Polish heritage and found joy in learning about the history and culture of both regions. Her humor was dry and perfectly timed, and her generosity was thoughtful and constant. Whether through a carefully chosen gift, an illuminating insight, or a well-placed joke, she found gentle ways to make the people around her feel loved.

She is deeply missed by her daughter, Lauren Girard; her son-in-law, Ryan Quinn, whom she considered a son; and her beloved grandchildren, Lucy and Leo, who brought her endless joy. She is also survived by her brother, Robert Curran; her sister-in-law, Linda Curran; and is lovingly remembered by her nephews and extended family. She was predeceased by her husband, Dennis; her brother, David Curran; and her parents, Francis and Wilhelmina Curran.

Kathy’s memory lives on in the people she loved and the many lives she touched with her steadiness, her wit, and her deep, quiet kindness. She made the world around her a gentler place.

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