WESTFIELD – The remarkable mother and grandmother, Caroline Helen (Smith) Cummings-Cavanaugh, (1932-2025) passed away on Saturday, May 3rd, 2025. Born in 1932 in Holyoke, MA to the late Edward and Helen (Grady) Smith, Carole grew up in the Holyoke flats with her twin brother, Ed and her beloved sisters, Judith and Elizabeth.
She was a 1949 graduate of Holy Rosary High School in Holyoke. She continued her education at Westfield State Teachers College and graduated with a bachelor’s degree in education, May of 1953. Carole met her future husband, Raymond Paul Cummings of Chelmsford, MA at a Westfield State soiree, they became sweethearts and wed in 1954. Carole became mother to six daughters, and grandmother to her “even dozen,” (as she called it) grandchildren. Daughters: Catherine Ann (grandchildren, Raymond and Lauren), Mary Elizabeth (grandsons, Ernie and Matt), Ellin Grace (grandsons, Paul and Daniel), Lisa (granddaughters, Julia and Clara), Paula (grandson, William), Eileen (grandchildren, Priscilla, Anthony and Victor). Carole and Ray loved and dedicated their lives to their six daughters, with a passion. They raised them in Westfield, MA, first in their starter home on Joseph Ave. and then in a unique Victorian home on Western Avenue. Both educators and active community members in Westfield, MA, they were advocates for the deaf and founders of the Willie Ross School for the Deaf, in Longmeadow, MA, to support their youngest daughter’s education. Many joyful summer vacations were had in York Beach Maine, and the beauty of nature was always at the forefront (including a knowledge and love of flowers and trees) when teaching their children about life. In 1975, Ray was tragically killed in a car accident, and Carole went on to raise her six daughters with strength, dignity and grace. Carole’s children all went on to college and her love and support for them, and for each and every one of their children, have made a profound impact on all of their lives. She was a treasured matriarch of the family.
Carole was employed by the Westfield Public Schools as an elementary school teacher for 25 years, retiring in 1989. She had an undying belief in humanity and was always concerned for those in need. As a dedicated first and second grade teacher Carole changed numerous children’s lives for the better. She was adored by her colleagues and students alike. Carole was re-married to Francis J. Cavanaugh and enjoyed travelling with him to Cape Cod, Florida and Ireland. Sadly, Fran passed away in 1989. She always looked for the light in darkness and understood the preciousness of life; looking for the good even when things were hard. Carole was a proud member of Stanley Park’s Partners in Preservation, the Springfield League of Women Voters, Public Citizen and Common Cause as well as becoming a docent for the Springfield Museum. She cherished her Irish and Lithuanian roots, ancestors, and family including nieces and nephews. Carole loved the arts, had a beautiful singing voice, and particularly enjoyed musical theatre. She was a world traveler and was always fascinated to learn about other cultures. She shared her enthusiasm of life and her gift of connecting with others with numerous people throughout her ninety-three years. Carole truly looked for the best in others and gave the best she had.
Her funeral will be held on Saturday, May 10th, 2025, at 11 a.m. in Our Lady of the Blessed Sacrament Church, 127 Holyoke Road, Westfield followed by Burial in Pine Hill Cemetery, Western Avenue, Westfield. Visiting hours will precede the Mass on Saturday from 9-10:30 a.m. at the funeral home of Firtion Adams, 76 Broad Street, Westfield, MA. www.firtionadams.com
