It is with deep sorrow that we announce the passing of Kathleen Ellen Maggio Raymond, age 73, of Melrose, Massachusetts. She passed away at her home on August 20, 2026. Kathleen was born January 18, 1953, in Lowell, Massachusetts, to the late Ethel A. Dickinson and Robert E. Dickinson.
Lovingly known as Kathy, she lived a life defined by love, laughter, generosity, and an extraordinary ability to make everyone around her feel like family. Kathy was married to Herbert H. Maggio Jr. for 20 years, and together they raised their two children, Herbert H. Maggio III and Christine Maggio in Wilmington, Massachusetts. They also built a successful jewelry business together. For morethan two decades, Kathy worked as a jeweler and helped operate jewelry stores in Medford, Somerville, and Tewksbury.
She became known not only for her craftsmanship, but for the relationships she built with customers, coworkers, friends, and members of her community. In 2009, Kathy married Claire Raymond, with whom she shared the later years of her life.
Kathy is survived by her husband, Claire Raymond; her children, Herbert H. Maggio III and Christine Maggio; her siblings, Bobby Dickinson Jr., Michael Vietro, Steven Vietro, and Diane Cunningham; and many nieces, nephews, extended family members, and dear friends who were fortunate enough to call her family.
More than anything, Kathy loved going to Maine on trips with her family. Maine was her comforting place — a place where she could relax, enjoy the beauty around her, and make special memories with the people she loved most. Those trips and the time spent together as a family will remain among the mostcherished memories of those who knew and loved her.
Kathy taught those around her how to live fully and authentically. She danced whenever the music played and encouraged others to join in without worrying who was watching. Her laughter was infectious, and she believed life was meant to be enjoyed with humor, silliness, and joy. She was never afraid to be herself, to laugh at herself, or to make others laugh along with her.
She loved fiercely and made certain the people in her life knew exactly how much they mattered. She adored animals of every kind and had a special way of making people feel seen and loved. She gave everyone a nickname, and being given one by Kathy was its own special kind of initiation — a sign that you had become one of her people.
Kathy was generous with everything she had. Her food was yours. Her home was yours. Her time was yours. There was always a seat at her table and room for one more. She believed that kindness mattered, that everyone deserved a place, and that the people we love should never have to wonder how much they mean to us. Those who knew Kathy will carry her with them in every shared meal, every burst of laughter, every dance in the kitchen, every silly moment, every lovingly given
nickname, and every act of kindness.
In honor of Kathy’s memory, her family hopes that if you have an “Aunty Kathy” in your life, you pick up the phone, make the call, and let them know how much they mean to you. Kathy will be deeply missed and forever remembered by all who were fortunate enough to know and love her.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in memory of Kathleen Raymond to Second Chance Animal Services, Attention: Elderly Assistance Program, 111 Young Road, East Brookfield, MA 01515. Donations may also be made online through Second Chance Animal Services’ donation page.
Kathy’s love for animals was a special part of who she was, and donations to this program will help provide care and support to pets and their elderly owners.
A Celebration of Life honoring Kathy will be held at a later date. Details will be shared with family and friends when arrangements are finalized.