WESTFIELD – Traci Ann Cavanaugh (1960-2025) died peacefully on October 17th, 2025, surrounded by love. She was a kind and loving person who touched the hearts of a large circle of family and friends. Traci was born on November 17th, 1960, to John and Eleanor Cavanaugh of Westfield. She attended Westfield public schools and received degrees in education from UMass Amherst and Central Connecticut University.
She was a wonderful sister and will be deeply missed by her siblings and their families: Lori and her husband Bill Hecht of Lowell MA; and John and his wife Julie Look of San Francisco; and her adored nieces and nephews.
Traci’s life was enriched by her loving aunts and uncles, cousins, neighbors and friends. You all meant so much to her. Traci had a special way of making everyone feel seen and cared for, whether it was through sharing a laugh over the phone, sending a heartfelt note to mark a special occasion, or showing up with her signature raspberry bars, pumpkin rolls, or chocolate zucchini bread. Martha’s Vineyard held a special place in her heart. Traci liked nothing better than spending time at the beach, touring the island, and welcoming family and friends — including the “Island Queens”— to her home.
As a kindergarten teacher at Roaring Brook School in Avon, CT for nearly 30 years, Traci gave so much of herself to her students and their families, many of whom became life-long friends. The enduring friendship of her colleagues was an important part of her life.
Traci left teaching to embrace the role of devoted caregiver for her mother. They developed a special bond with one another; they made each other happy. Traci brought such joy to her mother’s last years. Traci touched many lives along her journey and received so much loving support in return. She will be remembered for her generosity, warm smile, and heartfelt laughter. Traci always made people feel noticed and loved. Traci is at peace, and we hold her close within us. It was an honor to know her. Her presence may be gone from this Earth, but she will always be remembered in our hearts and minds.
Calling hours will be held on Sunday, November 2nd, 2025, from 3 p.m. to 6 p.m. at Firtion Adams Funeral Home, 76 Broad Street, Westfield, MA. A memorial service will be held on Monday, November 3rd, 2025, at 11 a.m. at the First Congregational Church of Westfield, 18 Broad Street, Westfield, MA.
Donations in Traci’s memory can be made to Shriners Hospitals for Children, the Westfield Food Pantry or the NAN Project. www.firtionadams.com
