Catherine “Kate” O’Toole Brown

Catherine “Kate” O’Toole Brown passed away peacefully on April 16, 2025, at the age of 75, surrounded by her family. Her passing followed complications from open-heart surgery, the result of her lifelong struggle with type 1 diabetes.

            Born in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, Kate was the beloved wife of Timothy “Tim” J. Brown for 54 years and the devoted mother of Elizabeth “Liz” Brown Tapper. She is survived by Tim, Liz, her son-in-law Jim Tapper, and her siblings: brother Chuck, and sisters Beth, Mary-Pat, and Maggie—and their families.

            Kate graduated with honors from Seton Hill College (BA), earned her master’s degree at Bridgewater State University (MA), and later received her Master of Library Science from the University of Illinois (MLS). A lifelong lover of children and books, she brought these passions together in a career as a librarian and educator, nurturing the curiosity and growth of thousands of young people.

            Kate was a gentle soul and a steady friend to many. Her leadership as President of the Mattapoisett Women’s Club brought her both challenge and joy, reflecting her enduring commitment to service, friendship, and community.

            In keeping with Kate’s wishes, family and friends will gather to celebrate her life with a Funeral Mass at St. Anthony’s Roman Catholic Church in Mattapoisett, MA on Saturday, May 17, at 10 am. Interment will be private.

            To honor Kate’s memory, donations may be made to Breakthrough T1D (formerly the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation: JDRF), or to Seton Hill University in Greensburg, PA. As a heartfelt alternative, pick up your favorite book and read a story to whatever circle of children surrounds you—just as Kate would have loved.