Obituary of Margaret "Peggy" Meara

Margaret “Peggy” (Doherty) Meara, a woman whose life was defined by kindness, compassion, and unwavering devotion to others, passed away peacefully after an extended illness on Wednesday morning, May 7, 2025. She was 84 years old.

Peggy was born in Cambridge, Massachusetts, one of three children of Edward and Catherine Doherty. She had a joyful childhood growing up in the vibrant Inman Square neighborhood, where the foundations of her warm and generous spirit were formed. A graduate of St. Mary’s High School, Peggy went on to pursue her calling in healthcare, becoming a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) after completing nursing school.

Her career was more than just a profession—it was a heartfelt vocation. Peggy began her work at Cambridge City Hospital, continued at Symmes Hospital in Arlington, and spent her final fifteen years caring for residents at the Winchester Nursing Home. She found true purpose in connecting with her patients, treating each one with dignity, empathy, and a calming presence that brought comfort to both patients and their families. While doctors made their rounds, Peggy was the one who stayed, listened, and truly cared—always ready to explain a diagnosis, ease a concern, or simply be a kind companion in a difficult moment.

Peggy’s caring nature extended far beyond the workplace. She was the person everyone turned to for medical advice, support, or simply a warm visit during times of illness. She never hesitated to lend a helping hand or stop by with comforting words and care.

Family was at the very heart of Peggy’s life. She met the love of her life, Ken Meara, while they were both working at Polaroid—Peggy made the first move, and the rest was history. They married in 1967 and built a loving home in Burlington in 1968, where they raised their two children. Peggy was deeply involved in their lives, always present for school activities, sports, and every milestone. Her joy only grew with the arrival of her two grandsons, whom she adored and watched with pride as they grew into young men.

Peggy’s sense of family extended well beyond her immediate circle. As one of three siblings and married to one of eight, family gatherings were joyful, lively affairs. Whether it was a Christmas party with seventy relatives, a spaghetti dinner, or a summer cookout, Peggy cherished every moment surrounded by the Mearas, Macks, McCarthys, and Dohertys. She was lovingly known as “Great Peg” by her many nieces, nephews, great-nieces, great-nephews, and even great-great nieces and nephews. Her home was a haven for children, complete with a surprise closet full of treats and gifts for those who had been especially good.

She also cherished time with her extended family in Donegal, Ireland, and fondly recalled family vacations on Cape Cod. Her warmth, quick wit, and ever-present smile brought joy to everyone lucky enough to know her.

Peggy’s creativity was another outlet for her love. She enjoyed crocheting hats, mittens, baby blankets, ponchos, and scarves—many of which were given as cherished gifts or donated to her local community. One of her handmade blankets became a favorite raffle prize at the Francis Wyman Elementary School Carnival, and she continued donating one every year, long after her grandsons had moved on. She also dabbled in macramé and took ceramics classes, creating beautiful keepsakes, including nativity sets that became family heirlooms.

A passionate Red Sox and Patriots fan, Peggy especially loved Rafael Devers. She also enjoyed Bingo nights with friends and trips to Foxwoods Casino to try her luck.

Peggy lived a life of deep meaning and quiet grace. Her work was more than a job—it was an expression of love. She gave generously, cared deeply, and touched countless lives with her gentle strength and compassion. Her memory will forever live on in the hearts of those who knew and loved her.

Peggy was the beloved wife of the late Kenneth Meara who passed in 2015.  She was the devoted mother of Cheryl Koczur of Burlington & her late husband Thomas, and Christopher Meara of Dorchester. She was the proud “Nana” to Adam and Ryan Koczur.   She was the sister of the late Mary McCarthy & her late husband John, and the late Edward Doherty & his surviving wife Patricia of Onset.  She was the caring sister-in-law to all the Meara families.  She was the dear friend of Marylyn Allen. She was also a fun and loving, aunt, great aunt, and great great aunt. 

Visiting hours will be held at the edward V. Sullivan Funeral Home, 43 Winn Street, Burlington on Saturday, May 10 from 12:30 to 2:30 p.m. A Funeral Service will begin at 2:30 p.m. 

In lieu of flowers, memorials in Peggy’s name may be made to the Alzheimer’s Association, www.alz.org, 320 Nevada St., Suite 201, Newton, MA 02460.  For online guestbook and video tribute see www.sullivanfuneralhome.net