Friday, March 30, 2007

Cathy Boyle, 1949-2007


It is with a profound sense of sorrow and loss that I record the passing of our co-worker and dear friend, Cathy Boyle.

Cathy was circulation supervisor (and the heart of this library) for decades. She dedicated her entire professional career, some 38 years, to Suffolk. Circulation managers are the "enforcers" of the library--they implement policies and levy fines--which is not a easy job! Cathy could be tough, but was always fair. She kept the library running smoothly and efficiently for the benefit of students and faculty, no matter what. Her organizational skills were phenomenal. And neither rain, nor sleet, nor gloom of night would keep her from making sure our library was open and ready to greet our users by 8am--7am during exam periods.

She also supervised our wonderful student staff and in that role was equal parts drill sergeant and den mother. She mentored countless student and paraprofessional staffers who worked for her in her many years of service.

She was a great co-worker and a wonderful friend. We will miss her so very much!

All of us who were her Sawyer Library family send out our wishes for comfort and healing to her devoted husband, Tommy, and to all of her "home" family.

We welcome you to attach your "comments" to this posting. Share your sorrow (and fond or funny reminiscences) right here.

3 comments:

Unknown said...

As a incoming freshman in 2002 looking for a work study job, I did not realize how much a job could effect me. I still remember meeting Cathy for the first time and working the first day. Her strict work ethic and stern attitude was eye opening. As time went on I realized that she was more like a mother than a boss to me. Cathy was a tough woman whose bravery I looked up too. She was always concerned with the well being of each student worker. My heart aches in knowing that she never got to see the new library and I hope to make her proud in keeping Circulation the heart and soul of the Sawyer Library.
My deepest sympathy goes out to her surviving family. Cathy's warmth and presence will be truly missed

Anonymous said...

I only knew Cathy Boyle a short 8 months. As supervisor, she was tough but very kind and appreciative. I really have missed her over the past year. I extend my sincere condolences to her husband and extended family. Cathy was one of a kind and she will be missed more than these words can express.

Anonymous said...

I couldn't have said it better. Cathy was equal parts drill sargent and den mother. She was my boss and my friend for so many years. Cathy was such a large part of my life. Cathy you will be missed and remembered in the lives of all of us you touched.