Obituary
Walter (Wally) Fitzgerald, of Methuen, MA, beloved husband, father, Grampy, brother, uncle and friend, passed away peacefully on May 8, 2025, surrounded by the family he cherished. Wally was the devoted husband of Dianne (Donahue) Fitzgerald for 60 wonderful years, with whom he shared a lifetime of laughter, love, and unforgettable memories.
Born and raised in Somerville, MA, Wally was the son of the late Anne (Scannell) and John Fitzgerald. He was a proud graduate of Somerville Vocational High School, where he began building the strong work ethic and leadership qualities that would define his life.
He was the proud and loving father of the late Scott Fitzgerald, Jack Fitzgerald and his wife Karen, Paul Fitzgerald, and Tim Fitzgerald, and a caring father-in-law to Kristine Fitzgerald.
Wally was affectionately known as Grampy to his many grandchildren, who were the light of his life: Kristen and her wife Stacey and their children Julia and Lucas; Scott and his children Graham and Lydon; and Kaitlyn, Kelsea, Jake, Ava, Erin and her husband Tyler, Shannon, Luke, Emma, and John. His sense of humor, endless stories, and big heart made him the center of every family gathering. He was also lovingly known as “Grampy the Great” by his great-grandchildren.
Professionally, Wally had a remarkable 39-year career at Polaroid, where he held many leadership roles, eventually becoming Director of Logistics and Transportation, overseeing operations. Even in retirement, his dedication continued, he worked for ten years with the Mansfield Public Schools, where he brought the same warmth and reliability that defined every chapter of his life.
Wally gave generously to his community. He was a volunteer with the Big Brother program and served as a volunteer probation officer in the city of Somerville. Wally was actively involved in his sons’ sports and activities, taking great pride in their achievements. He was a constant and supportive presence, always ready to help, encourage, and mentor both his children and other young people in the community.
A man of deep faith, Wally served as a Eucharistic Minister and was a devoted member of the St. Catherine Church community in Somerville.
He is also survived by his sister Julie Carr and her husband Mark, and was predeceased by his beloved sisters Nancy Driscoll, Kathy Goldy, Joan Demeo, and Mary O’Reilly. Wally was a cherished “Uncle Wally” to many nieces and nephews, always ready with a joke, a story, or a helping hand.
Wally had a gift for making people laugh and always knew how to brighten a room. His warmth, wit, and unwavering love for his family will be remembered and missed beyond measure.
The family would like to extend their deepest gratitude to All Care Hospice for the exceptional compassion, support, and kindness shown to Wally and his loved ones during his final days.
In honor of Wally’s memory, donations may be made to All Care Hospice by mail at:
All Care, 210 Market Street, Lynn, MA 01901 or online at http://www.allcare.org
Funeral Procession from the George L. Doherty Funeral Home, 855 Broadway (Powder House Sq.) Somerville, Wednesday morning May 14th at 10:00am, followed by a Funeral Mass in St. Catherine Church, Somerville at 11:00. Relatives and friends invited. Calling hours Tuesday, May 13th from 4:00 – 7:00. Interment private