Kathleen Lee "Kay" Harrington

North Hampton - Kathleen Lee “Kay” Harrington, 88 of North Hampton, passed away on Thursday, August 10, 2023 at Webster of Rye. She was born in Salem, MA on January 19, 1935 to the late Virginia (Hall) and Edward Ronan. Oldest of 8 children, she was adopted and raised by Carl and Catherine (Winkle) Carlson. She grew up in Marblehead, MA, schooled in Swampscott and Lynn, MA and graduated from St. Mary’s in Lynn, MA. Kathleen shared 54 years of marriage with her late husband, Frank Harrington who died in 2009. She and Frank moved to the Seacoast in 1963 and raised their 5 children. Whether you knew her as Mom, Mamie, Ma, Kay or Kathleen, she was loved by all and a friend to all. Her warmth and kindness were abundant, and she always had time to listen and share her wisdom with those who needed her. In the 60’s, Kay was a weekly columnist for the Hampton Union; “Happenings in North Hampton.” When her children were young, she was a telephone operator in Exeter where she made many friends that she kept for life. As years progressed, she worked at Winnacunnet High School as a lunchroom monitor, where she known as “Sally.” While at WHS, she would change the lives of many students who befriended her, taking them to get their driver’s license when they had no one to turn to and buying them lunch when they had no money. She also had a huge heart and selflessly aided local families that had financial hardships. Sacrifice was something she knew well and if someone needed her, she was always there. Later in her career, she worked at the former Wicke’s Lumber and managed two local motels. In her elder years, she volunteered at a local nursing facility. Kay enjoyed her family very much and loved having them all together in her home. When her grandchildren were young, she played dress-up and spent a lot of time playing games and singing songs with them. She was always the glow of sunshine and brought joy to everyone. In her later years she continued to keep active, traveling to Las Vegas, The Grand Canyon, Foxwoods and visiting the ocean and the Lakes Region. She is survived by her children; Kathy Harrington and her spouse Kim DePasqua of Franklin, MA, Tom Harrington and his spouse Terry of Hampton, Carlene Harrington of North Hampton, Tim Harrington and his spouse Donna of Newmarket and Bill Harrington of North Hampton. She also leaves her grandchildren: Matt, Becky, Erin, Ryan, Jacqui, Connor, Christian, Sean and Donovan and her 6 great-grandchildren: Ryder, Jayden, Hunter, Kennedy, Chase and Stella, her one sister, Norma Lee Eon of Salem, MA and many nieces and nephews. A celebration of her life will be held at the convenience of the family. If desired, donations may be made to the NH Animal Rescue League, 545 State Rt. 101, Bedford, NH 03110.

Kathleen Lee "Kay" Harrington

January 19, 1935 - August 10, 2023