John & Linda Lynch

John P. “J” Lynch, Sr. (1950–2026) and Linda J. (Bailey) Lynch (1953–2026)

Monson-John and Linda Lynch, devoted husband and wife for nearly six decades, passed away together on Thursday, February 19, 2026, during a tragic house fire. Their untimely passing is heartbreaking and reflects the profound truth of their lives: they walked every path side by side, and they left this world the same way.

John, lovingly known as “J,” was born in Boston, Massachusetts, to the late James L. and Mary L. (Connelly) Lynch. He was educated in the Brookline Public Schools and dedicated more than 20 years of service to the Archdiocese of Boston as a church sexton. Known for his steady presence and quiet reliability, he also worked part-time for several Boston-area funeral homes as a funeral attendant, assisting families with compassion during their most difficult moments.

Linda was born in Boston to the late William J. and Irene J. (Mitchell) Bailey and was also educated in the Brookline Public Schools. For more than 20 years, she served as a receptionist for the Archdiocese of Boston, greeting parishioners and staff with the warmth and kindness that defined her life.

Their story began in 1967 at a Lynch family gathering at Larz Anderson Park, where a chance meeting sparked a lifelong partnership. They married on May 9, 1970, building their early years and raising their family in Dedham, Massachusetts. Later, they fulfilled a shared dream of country living when they moved to Monson, where they created a peaceful home surrounded by open fields, horses, and the joy of raising two more sons.

Their home was a place of simple pleasures and unwavering love—John with a crossword puzzle always within reach, and Linda with a sewing project in her hands. Over the years, they cared for five beloved beagles, each one offering comfort and companionship, especially in the years following the heartbreaking loss of a son.

John and Linda lived a life defined by devotion—to their family, to their work, to their faith, and most of all, to each other. Their love story, marked by resilience, humor, and quiet strength, leaves a legacy that will be cherished by all who knew them.

They are predeceased by their sons James W. Lynch and Joseph J. Lynch; their parents and siblings, James Lynch, Paul Lynch, William Lynch, Michael Lynch, David Lynch, Mary Jane Bowen, Gordon Shaw, Terry Shaw, Janice Lieb and Robert Bailey

John and Linda are survived by their children, John P. Lynch, Jr of Cambridge, Joseph P. Lynch of Boston, Kellie J Miller and her husband James Miller of Monson, Aiden J. Lynch and his partner Chearrannee Ngin of Monson. They also leave their cherished grandchildren, Michaela A. Lynch, Victoria J. Miller, Abigail E. Miller, Eleanor N. Lynch and James W. Miller, each of whom brought them immense pride and joy.

John and Linda also leave their siblings; Sally McMorrow, Robert Lynch, Martha Harney, Barbara MacDonald and William Baily as well as many nieces, nephews and cousins.

Lombard Funeral Home 3 Bridge St Monson has been entrusted with their arrangements. Visiting hours will be held Monday, March 2, 2026 from 4-7pm at the funeral home. A Funeral Mass will be held Tuesday, March 3, 2026 at St. Patrick's Church 22 Green St Monson, MA at 10am. Please gather directly at the church. Burial will be held privately at the convenience of the family.

In lieu of flowers please consider a memorial donation to assist the family to https://www.gofundme.com/f/support-for-miller-lynch-families