Ellen McCarthy Kirk's Obituary
Ellen McCarthy Kirk, 75, of Leesburg, VA, passed away peacefully on September 6, 2025, at Capital Caring Adler Hospice House, with family by her side. After a long and brave journey with cancer, she passed with the same grace and quiet strength that she carried throughout her life.
Ellen was raised on the North Shore of Boston. She grew up in Peabody, Massachusetts, surrounded by a big, warm extended family before moving to Danvers. A proud product of Catholic education, she attended St. Thomas the Apostle School and Bishop Fenwick High School, finishing her education at Salem State University.
She started her career at Mobil Oil in New York City, where she met her future husband, James Henry Kirk. They shared 47 wonderful years together filled with love and adventure. Jim’s career with Mobil took them around the world—from New York City to Japan, Saudi Arabia, and Belgium— Ellen embraced each move with enthusiasm, always supporting Jim and making every new place feel like home. Their final move, back to Mobil headquarters, brought them to Virginia, where they settled first in Reston and later at River Creek Country Club in Leesburg.
Wherever Ellen lived, she fully embraced the culture and community, making friends and finding ways to give back. While abroad, she taught English and was active with the American Women’s Club of Brussels. Later, she became deeply involved at River Creek, where she served on the HOA board in many capacities, contributed greatly to the Women’s Golf Association (WGA), and supported the community’s youth. Throughout her life, Ellen was passionate about supporting charitable causes, donating her time and energy, and helping to raise funds for organizations that made a difference.
Golf was one of Ellen’s great loves, a passion passed down from her father and grandfather. She not only played but shared her love of the game with others, especially through her work with Special Olympics, where she coached and partnered with athletes—her longtime partner Tara held a special place in her heart. She also cherished her River Creek Canasta group, which brought her friendship and support during the challenges of her treatments.
Ellen had a creative streak and a wicked sense of humor. She was a talented needleworker and an enthusiastic cook. During the pandemic, her daily dose of memes, animal pictures, and puns became a bright spot for so many. She always appreciated a good Irish joke, and no matter how far her travels took her, she remained a true Boston sports fan—especially loyal to the New England Patriots.
Ellen was predeceased by her husband, Jim, and her parents, James and Elizabeth (Lombard) McCarthy. She leaves behind a large circle of cousins, nieces, nephews, grand-nieces, grand-nephews, and countless friends across the globe.
Ellen enjoyed life and all it had to offer. She will be warmly remembered by her family, friends, and everyone whose lives she touched.
Visitation will be held on Tuesday, September 16, 2025, from 11:00 to 11:30 AM at Loudoun Funeral Chapel, 158 Catoctin Circle SE, Leesburg, Virginia. A funeral service will begin at 11:30 AM at the same location. Following the service, a luncheon reception will be held at River Creek Club.
Ellen will be laid to rest on Monday, September 22, 2025, with a Mass celebrated at 10:00 AM at St. Thomas the Apostle Church in Salem, Massachusetts, followed by interment at St. Mary’s Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation in Ellen’s honor to the Humane Society of Loudoun County, online at www.humaneloudoun.org, or to another charity of your choice.
Online condolence may be made to the family at www.loudounfuneralchapel.com
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