By Eileen Kurkoski, WILPF Boston Branch co-chair
WILPF Boston is saddened to announce the peaceful passing of Pat McSweeney on Saturday, Feb. 14, 2026, in Taunton, MA. Born March 15, 1929, in New Bedford, MA, Patricia lived a life rich in education, adventure, and unwavering commitment to the causes close to her heart.
Patricia attended St. Mary’s Grammar and High Schools in Taunton before earning her degree from Emmanuel College in Boston. She began her teaching career in Taunton, working for three years before embarking on an incredible journey as a civilian educator for US Air Force schools overseas. Her teaching assignments took her to Tokyo, Japan; Bitburg, Wiesbaden, and Ramstein in Germany; and Seville, Spain. During her years abroad, Patricia explored the world extensively.
Upon returning to the United States, Patricia resumed her teaching career in Lexington, MA, where she taught for many years before retiring. In her later years, she became deeply involved in the peace movement, participating in numerous anti-nuclear events with WILPF. She was a generous supporter of these causes, donating to both WILPF and the arts that captured the emotional impact of war. Always helpful and caring, Patricia was called an “angel” by WILPF and other organizations.
Proud of her Irish heritage and ever grateful for the love and guidance of her parents, Dennis and Mary McSweeney, Patricia cherished the blessings of family and friendship throughout her life.
Pat McSweeney’s Legacy: WILPF and Beyond
Two WILPF members offered words of tribute to Pat after her passing:
“Back when I was doing more about Guantanamo, she was always there, always helpful and caring. This is a sad loss.” -Susan McLucas
Dear Pat,
My heart is heavy today, learning of your passing.
But I am also filled with joy remembering our lovely friendship and you bringing me together for peace dinners and great conversations with Faye, George, and Winston at Ray’s house for more great dinners and people.
So too do I remember your wonderful generosity in supporting my film and peace work over the years. You were a real “Angel” in the fullest sense of the word.
JiYoung and I will miss you above and beyond our deepest thoughts and feelings.
With Devoted Love,
David and JiYoung. 2/28/26
PS: A recent poem I thought you would appreciate
“CHILDREN” by David Rothauser
At the end of the day
In the dusty corners of our minds
Horrors of War will fade, as they always do.
Semite, antisemite, collateral damage, hostages,
Winners-losers-terrorists, heroes – all and all of it,
A dim memory in the illusion of our dreams – gone,
Wispy clouds sigh away, float West to East
Middle East tucked between…hearken!
Before we lose that final, sweet note desperately
Clinging to our aborted entrails…forever remember
The children…the children here, there and everywhere
In our open eyes, guts, stomach retching, mind searing
Arms beg, hearts race, cascading tears and laughter…
They are ALL, our children…they belong…
The Rising Together Theater Company in New York created a show in tribute to Pat, titled “Reap What You Sow, Don’t Lose Heart!” Ticket sales will benefit local group Peace Action of Staten Island.
The Rising Together Theater Company describes the play as follows: A mother’s military past collides with her daughter’s growing doubts about war and patriotism, igniting a debate about morality, bravery, and history.
