Edwina Rita Duggan

Edwina Rita (McCarthy) Duggan, age 88, a resident of Chelmsford, MA, passed away peacefully at her home on Saturday, September 12, 2026, surrounded by her loving family. She was the beloved wife of the late Peter E. Duggan with whom she enjoyed 19 years of marriage.

She was born in Somerville, MA on May 20, 1938, and was the daughter of the late John and Elizabeth (Conway) McCarthy. Beloved sister of the late Alice Smith, Sister Marie Ancilla McCarthy, CSJ, Teresa McCarthy, Edward McCarthy, and John McCarthy (who died as a child).

Edwina graduated from Cathedral High School in 1956. Edwina was a dedicated administrative assistant at St. Brigid Parish in Lexington, a place that held a very special place in her heart. Her faith was at the center of her life, and Edwina felt great joy in serving her home parish of St. Mary in Chelmsford. Over the years, she embraced many volunteer roles, proudly serving as a lector, Eucharistic Minister, and funeral coordinator. She gave her time generously and considered it a privilege to help others and serve her church family.

Edwina is survived by her daughter, Susan E. Doherty, and son-in-law, John; her three cherished grandchildren, Sydney and fiancé, Oliver Collette, Jack and Connor Doherty of Melrose; and many beloved nieces and nephews.

The family is especially grateful to Kim, RN, Edwina’s Pathway Hospice nurse, whose compassion, kindness, and dedication made it possible for Edwina to remain in the comfort of her own home, surrounded by the people and memories she loved.

Her visitation will be held on Friday, September 18, 2026 from 9 - 10am at the BLAKE CHELMSFORD FUNERAL HOME, 24 Worthen Street, Chelmsford. Her Mass of Christian Burial will follow her visitation at 11am at St. Mary Parish, 25 North Road, Chelmsford. Interment will follow in Pine Ridge Cemetery, CHELMSFORD.