Catherine Marie (Amaral) Gaffney

Providence - Catherine Marie (Amaral) Gaffney, fondly known as Cathy, passed away peacefully on March 20, 2025, at Miriam Hospital in Providence, RI. Born on September 9, 1953, in Providence, Cathy was a beacon of light and strength throughout her 71 years.

Cathy was the loving wife of the late Richard Alan Gaffney, cherished daughter of the late Alfred and Lillian (Pacheco) Amaral, and devoted sister of the late Elizabeth J. Roderick and her late husband Gerald J. Roderick. Despite the loss of her dear niece, the late Donna M. Ferreira, Cathy's spirit remained undiminished, and she continued to be a source of love and support for her family. She will be deeply missed by her nephew David A. Roderick and his wife Christine M. Roderick, nephew Darren G. Roderick and his wife Kim, as well as Johnny Calacone. Cathy's role as a doting Godmother was beautifully evident in her relationship with her Godson and Great nephew David Roderick II and his wife Ashley, and she took immense joy in the lives of her twin great-great nephews Lucas David Roderick and Mason William Roderick, all of whom reside in East Providence, RI.

A proud graduate of East Providence High School and Amherst College, Cathy's educational pursuits were reflective of her lifelong love of learning and her commitment to personal growth. Her professional life was marked by a deep commitment to service and community. Cathy's dedication shone through her work as a Volunteer Coordinator of the Information and referral service for the Arthritis Foundation. In addition, her passion for advocacy led her to the National Federation of the Blind of RI, where she served as Secretary and Board Member for several years, helping to improve the lives of others facing similar challenges. Cathy also brought her meticulous attention to detail to her role in the accounting department at American Insulated Wire, where she was respected and admired by her colleagues.

Though Cathy had lived the last year of her life in Providence, she spent the majority of her life in East Providence. A faithful parishioner of St. Brendan Church, she found solace and community within its walls. Cathy's interests were diverse and joyful; she had an enduring love for music, which brought her much comfort and happiness. She was often surrounded by friends and family, especially during the holidays, where she reveled in the warmth of shared traditions. Cathy also had a special fondness for music boxes, each melody a cherished note in the symphony of her life.

Cathy faced many challenges head-on, meeting each with the courage and grace that became her hallmark. Her resilience and determination were an inspiration to all who knew her. In the face of adversity, she fought the great fight and prevailed time and again. In her final days, Cathy resided at Wingate Assisted Living, where she continued to demonstrate the loving and gentle spirit that made her so beloved by those around her.

Cathy's legacy is one of love, courage, and gentleness. Her life was a testament to the power of positivity and the strength of the human spirit. Her memory will be treasured by all who were fortunate enough to know her, and her influence will continue to be felt by the countless lives she touched.

As we bid farewell to Catherine Marie (Amaral) Gaffney, we celebrate the remarkable woman she was and the indelible mark she has left on the world. Her journey may have come to a close, but her spirit will forever remain in the hearts of those she loved.

Her funeral will be held on Monday, March 24, 2025, at 9:00am from the REBELLO FUNERAL HOME, 901 Broadway, East Providence, followed by a Mass of Christian Burial at 10:30am in St. Brendan Church, 60 Turner Avenue, Riverside.  Burial will follow in Gate of Heaven Cemetery, 550 Wampanoag Trail, East Providence.

Relatives and friends are invited to attend. Calling hours MONDAY MORNING from 9:00am – 10:00am in the funeral home. In lieu of flowers, please make a donation in her memory to the National Federation of the Blind of RI, or to the Arthritis Foundation, 2358 Post Road, Suite 104, Warwick, RI

www.rebellofuneralhomes.com.

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