Lois A. (Ward) McCarthy, of Windham, NH, formerly of Melrose, died December 13th, 2019. She was born on August 18, 1939 to Irwin and Jennie (Goodwin) Ward; was raised in Melrose and graduated from St. Mary's High School and from Boston College. She would eventually go on to earn two Master's Degrees and was accepted into a PHD program at Northeastern. Lois was married to her late husband, Louis, in 1970 at St. Mary's Church in Melrose. The two of them loved to travel, and always stressed the importance of it. They took trips to St. John, Hawaii, and countries all over Europe including Ireland, England, and Scotland. Lois was always a strong supporter of the local veteran's causes in Melrose. Mrs. McCarthy had a long career in education, with over 30 years in the Melrose school system she made a difference in countless students lives. Lois started teaching in Newburyport, before getting a job in Melrose. She would eventually become principal of the Hoover and Ripley schools in Melrose. Lois was well respected among her peers and her students, and kept in touch with many of her former students. She leaves behind her loving family and many dear friends. Lois was the beloved wife of the late Louis F. McCarthy. Sister of Robert Ward & his wife Linda of Andover, Nancy Craddock & her late husband Wayne of Windham, NH, and Richard Ward of Melrose. Also survived by several nieces & nephews. Visiting Hours will be held at the Gately Funeral Home, 79 W. Foster St., Melrose, on Friday, Dec. 20th, from 4:00-8:00 PM. Funeral from the Gately Funeral Home on Saturday, Dec. 21st, at 9:00 AM, followed by a 10:00 AM Funeral Mass at St. Mary's Church, 9 Herbert St., Melrose. Interment in Wyoming Cemetery, Melrose. Relatives & friends are respectfully invited to attend.