RUTH E. (CARLIN) SHARKEY
May 21, 2023

Ruth E. (Carlin) Sharkey – of Salem, NH, formerly of Woburn and Naples, Florida died peacefully, May 21st at the age of ninety-two, with her family by her side. Devoted wife of 71 years to the late George J. Sharkey. Proud mother of Janice Sharkey, her fiancé Andy Bourque of Kingston, NH, Sandra Kirby, her husband Mark of North Reading, and the late Susan Hartley. Cherished grandmother of Christopher Kirby, his wife Madeline, Shaylin Lawrence, her husband Jason, Michael Kirby, Justin Hartley, Kristen Hartley and the late Crystal and TJ Sheehan. Adoring great-grandmother of five. Dear sister of of Ann Connors of North Reading and Robert Carlin of Hudson, NH. Also survived by many loving nieces and nephews. Her Funeral Mass will be Celebrated in St. Anthony Church, 851 Main Street, Woburn on Wednesday, May 31st 10 a.m. Relatives and friends are respectfully invited to calling hours, Tuesday, May 30th from 4-7 p.m. in the Lynch-Cantillon Funeral Home, 263 Main Street, Woburn. Interment will take place at the convenience of the family. Remembrances may be made in honor of Ruth, to the charity of one’s choice.
Ruth E. (Carlin) Sharkey – of Salem, NH formerly of Naples, FL and Woburn, MA died peacefully, May 21st, at the age of 92, with her loving family at her side. She was the cherished wife of the late George Sharkey for 71 years.
Born in and raised in Somerville, Ruth was the daughter of the late Francis and Mary (McLaughlin) Carlin. She was a graduate of Somerville High School, class of 1948.
In June of 1951, she married the love of her life, George. They moved to Woburn, where they made their home for fifty seven years, raising their daughters in a close knit neighborhood. As a homemaker, Ruth took pride in her home. She enjoyed entertaining, baking, crafting, was a talented seamstress and loved to shop.
Once her children were grown, she worked as a computer operator for the Town of Winchester.
After retiring, Ruth and George became snowbirds, making their home in Royal Woods in Naples, Florida for nearly thirty years. They loved the beauty of Naples, it’s warmth, and the wonderful friends they made.
Throughout the years, George and Ruth remained very social, active and inseparable. They loved dancing, whether it was in their living room or at their ballroom or square dance clubs. They enjoyed group trips and cruises, playing cards and bocce and especially spending time with their family. From taking walks, going to church or just watching tv, they were always hand in hand.
Ruth possessed a caring, gentle nature. She was always cheerful, and eager to help others. She was loved dearly will be deeply missed.
Proud mother of Janice Sharkey, her fiancé Andy Bourque of Kingston, NH, Sandra Kirby, her husband Mark of North Reading, and the late Susan Hartley. Cherished grandmother of Christopher Kirby, his wife Madeline, Shaylin Lawrence, her husband Jason, Michael Kirby, Justin Hartley, Kristen Hartley and the late Crystal and TJ Sheehan. Adoring great-grandmother of five. Dear sister of of Ann Connors of North Reading and Robert Carlin of Hudson, NH. Also survived by many loving nieces and nephews.
Her Funeral Mass will be Celebrated in St. Anthony Church, 851 Main Street, Woburn on Wednesday, May 31st 10 a.m. Relatives and friends are respectfully invited to calling hours, Tuesday, May 30th from 4-7 p.m. in the Lynch-Cantillon Funeral Home, 263 Main Street, Woburn. Interment will take place at the convenience of the family. Remembrances may be made in honor of Ruth, to the Dana Farber Cancer Institute, P.O. Box 849168, Boston MA 02284
Her Funeral Mass will be Celebrated in St. Anthony Church, 851 Main Street, Woburn on Wednesday, May 31st 10 a.m. Relatives and friends are respectfully invited to calling hours, Tuesday, May 30th from 4-7 p.m. in the Lynch-Cantillon Funeral Home, 263 Main Street, Woburn. Interment will take place at the convenience of the family. Remembrances may be made in honor of Ruth, to the charity of one’s choice.
So very sad to hear of your mom’s passing. Growing up, I loved her as a second mother…so sweet, kind, and loving. A wonderful best friend to my mom and dad since they were kids in Somerville and later on as they moved to Woburn and lived 3 houses away from each other, raising us kids together for many many years. My wonderful memories of her will live fondly in my heart forever.
Love Brenda
So sorry for the loss of your wonderful mom Ruthie. She was a wonderful kind person. She was a great friend to my mom for many years. I will remember her fondly ❤️
Patricia (Fairweather) MacInnis
To my wonderful Godmother: God bless and rest at peace.. Bobby
I can remember your mom when I was a child and friends with Susan. She was always buzzing about the kitchen with a kind smile and a happy hello.
I attended square dance parties a few times with your parents and the Coughlins. Could they cut a rug! Your parents were a handsome couple and knew how to have fun. My gratitude for the memories and tolerance of a little trouble on occasions!
My deepest sympathies to you and all who knew and loved your mother. Tis a sad day but she is now in Heaven dancing with your Dad! May warm memories and God’s loving peace find you now.
Deirdre (Hennigan) Doherty and family
I am so sorry for the loss of your Mom. You are in my prayers ❤️❤️
She is now resting in peace
So sorry to hear of Ruthie’s passing. She was such a beloved friend of my mother and I will remember her fondly. May your cherished memories of her live in your hearts forever.