Kathleen Leticia McLellan

It is with heavy hearts that we share the unexpected passing of our dear mother, Kathleen L. McLellan, age 80, on Tuesday, October 28, 2025. Kathleen was born in Brockton, Massachusetts, to Ruth E. Holman on July 16, 1945. Along with her seven siblings, she lived in various locations throughout New England before settling in Springfield. Kathy graduated from Springfield Commerce High School and worked as a teacher’s aide in the Springfield school system. Upon deciding to pursue a degree in nursing, she attended STCC and The Elms College, where she received her Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN). She had an extensive career at Mercy Hospital in Springfield, working in numerous departments as an exceptional and deeply caring nurse. Kathy also served as a nurse union representative, always advocating for her fellow nurses and ensuring the proper treatment and care of patients. Even after retirement, she continued her relationships and offered advice to her peers. Upon retirement, Kathy enjoyed gardening, bird watching (cardinals were her favorite) with her devoted grandson, Tate, and following the Red Sox. She especially loved her morning tea and daily journal. Kathy also enjoyed decorating her own home and her daughter’s home. She greatly admired her mother, Ruth, and cherished their family trips to Truro on Cape Cod. As Ruth was a member of MENSA, Kathy made sure to stay “sharp as a tack” with various mind-challenging computer tests, games, and puzzles. Kathy was predeceased by her mother, Ruth E. Holman, and sisters Barbara LaBreque and Melissa Holman. She will be greatly missed by her daughter, Tamara and husband Robert McNamara of Westfield, and grandson Tate, son Timothy McLellan and wife Karen of Chicopee, and grandchildren Grace and Logan. She also leaves behind her siblings David Holman, Carol Grachmal, Judy Villamaino, Susan Holmann, and Andrea Pajak, along with nieces, nephews, and her dear grand-dog, whom she nicknamed “Nosie Rosie.” Always remember — “Hugs and Kisses, love you,” and “It’s too cold to snow.” A memorial service will be held on Friday, November 7, 2025, at New England Funeral & Cremation Center, 25 Mill Street, Springfield, MA, beginning with a period of visitation from 12:00 PM to 1:30 PM, followed by a funeral home service at 1:30 PM. A ceremony will follow in the Springfield Cemetery Scattering Garden, 171 Maple Street, Springfield, MA. We ask that in lieu of flowers, donations be made to the Thomas J. O’Connor Animal Control & Adoption Center, 627 Cottage St, Springfield, MA. Please visit Kathy’s memorial page at www.nefcc.net for expressions of sympathy.