‘Distinguished Democrat’ Lynda Healey Dies at 74

Political activist and author Lynda M. Healey 74, of Haverhill died Monday at Merrimack Valley Hospice House in Haverhill surrounded by her loving family and friends.

In 2013, Healey was named a “Distinguished Democrat” by the Haverhill Democratic City Committee.

She was born in Haverhill Jan. 10, 1941. At different phases of her life, she was a member of a religious order, a nightclub singer, a probation officer, a clinical social worker, a sales and marketing person, a political activist and an educator who taught both teachers and students in public and private schools.

She was a graduate of Emmanuel College in Boston, held master’s degrees from Boston College and Boston University, and earned an MLITT from Middlebury College’s Bread Loaf School of English. She was an avid photographer and the author of the novel, “A Leap to Freedom.”

Healey was a free spirit with a sense of adventure and she loved to travel, hike,and kayak. She was grateful to be blessed with lifelong close friends. She truly valued the connections she made throughout her life with many wonderful people, and she was thankful for the many opportunities she had for great adventures. She once said that everyone has three lives: the life they plan, the life they live and the life they remember. At the end, the life she remembered was rich and vibrant and full of fun.

She is survived by her sister Gloria A. Ross of Bradford; her nephew Kelly J. Ross and his wife Cindy Kakrs of Westford; several cousins; and very dear friends. She was predeceased by her nephew Kevin Ross.

Family and friends may call Saturday, March 14, from 3 to 7 p.m. at the Driscoll Funeral Home, 309 South Main St. A prayer service will be offered at 3 p.m. prior to the calling hours. A private family committal will take place at a later date. Arrangements are under the direction of the Conte Funeral Home of North Andover.

In lieu of flowers the Robert L. Frost School will establish a memorial fund in Healey’s memory to be awarded to a promising student who manifests her love and respect for the craft of writing. Donations made be made to Robert L. Frost Middle School PTO 33 Hamlet Street Lawrence MA01843.