Elizabeth McCarthy Obituary

It is with deep love and sadness that we announce the peaceful passing of Elizabeth Ann "Betty" McCarthy on March 31, 2026, surrounded by her devoted family.
Betty was the heart and matriarch of the McCarthy family — a steady, loving presence whose warmth, strength, and unwavering devotion shaped generations. She created a home filled with laughter, tradition, and unconditional love, and her legacy lives on in the family she cherished above all else.
She was the beloved mother of Michael McCarthy (Kim), Colleen Mertz (Bill), Dennis McCarthy (Elena), Kevin McCarthy (Amy), Eileen Shifflett (Lee), and Kelly Singleton. She was predeceased by her husband of 54 years, Frank McCarthy, and her son-in-law, Jamie Singleton.
Betty was a proud and loving grandmother to 23 grandchildren: Michael, Patrick, Molly, Sean, and Ryan; Shannon Cronin (Johnny), Billy Mertz (Kim), and Kelly Higgins (Matt); Ryan (Jackie), Denny (Sam), Cristina (Logan Haarmann), and Michaela; Shea (Alexis), Reilly (Nina), Mary Claire Moran (Frank), Casey (Autumn), Grace Lindstrom (Nick), and Brady; Matthew Shifflett (Sydney) and Meaghan Leake (Carl); and JJ, Danny, and Frankie. Each of them held a special place in her heart, and she took great joy in their lives and accomplishments.
She was also the proud great-grandmother of 17.
Affectionately known as "Nana" to her grandchildren and great-grandchildren, Betty never missed a sporting event, baptism, First Communion, Confirmation, graduation, or wedding. Nothing brought her greater joy than being present for the moments that mattered most in the lives of those she loved.
Betty found happiness in life's simple pleasures — time spent with family and friends, watching her children's and grandchildren's activities, the rhythm and joy of Irish dancing, and the quiet comfort of crocheting. Her kindness, gentle spirit, and sense of humor will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved her. She took particular joy in dancing the night away at her grandchildren's weddings.
Betty was a devoted member of St. John the Baptist Catholic Church for nearly 60 years, and more recently a member of Our Lady of Grace Catholic Church. She was also an active member of Argyle Country Club for over 45 years.
Betty's mind remained sharp until the very end; she could recall from memory the birthdays of her children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and extended family — a reflection of how deeply she loved and held each of them close.
Her life was a testament to love, faith, and family, and she leaves behind a legacy that will continue to guide and inspire all who were blessed to know her.
Family will receive visitors on Monday, April 6, from 2:00–4:00 p.m. at Collins Funeral Home, 500 University Blvd. W., Silver Spring, MD, and on Tuesday, April 7, from 10:00–11:00 a.m. at St. John the Baptist Catholic Church, 12319 New Hampshire Ave., Silver Spring, MD 20904, followed by a Mass of Christian Burial at 11:00 a.m. Interment will immediately follow at Gate of Heaven Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Betty's honor to a charity of your choice.