Carol A. Finch, 95

Carol A. Finch, passed away peacefully on August 19, 2026, at age 95, surrounded by her family.

Her long life was defined by devotion to her family, her wonderful sense of humor, artistic creativity, and enduring optimism. Born and raised in Springfield, Massachusetts, she was the youngest of eight children of Harold and Ethel Finch. She loved recounting anecdotes from growing up in a large, creative family. She married shortly after high school and gave birth to six children during the next thirteen years. They were the center of her world. Her daily diaries describe three decades of birthday celebrations, outdoor excursions, school and scouting events, and many doctors’ visits. She was also an active member of her community, including membership in the local art guild, teaching Sunday school, and playing in the town softball league.

After her children were grown, Carol worked in a variety of roles, including restaurant waitress and hostess to store cashier, well into her 80s before retiring. She was also talented seamstress, and in later years carried on a thriving personal sewing practice, Mom’s Mending.

Carol had a wonderful sense of humor, particularly with word play. (Near the end of Carol’s life, a nurse burst out laughing when Carol – asked if the nurse could take her blood pressure - responded “the pressure is all mine”.) She also took great joy in spending time with her siblings and many nieces and nephews, most notably by hosting an annual 4th of July picnic. She especially cherished her travels with her sister, Norma, and her yearly visit to Norma’s and her husband Billy’s home in Arizona.

She is survived by four of her children: Denise Dickinson, Curtis Dickinson, Matthew Dickinson and his wife Alison, and Cara Paradise and her husband Glen, and daughter-in-law Michelle Julian, and four grandchildren. She was predeceased by her sons Grant and Donald, as well as her former husband, Henry Dickinson, Jr.

Carol was a loving mother, grandmother, and friend. Her warmth, humor, and steadfast optimism will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved her.

Following a private funeral service, Carol will be laid to rest in Agawam Center Cemetery in Agawam, Mass.

Arrangements are under the care of Hays Funeral Home, 56 Main Street, Northborough, MA. To leave an online condolence or to offer a word of support, please visit www.HaysFuneralHome.com.