Heather Marie MacPhee, age 55, of Concord, died unexpectedly at her home on Thursday, Nov. 17. She leaves behind her beloved family and a wide circle of friends, co-workers and community members who will forever cherish her memory.
She was born in Cambridge on Sept. 24, 1967 to Peter MacPhee and the late Nancy (Hastings) MacPhee. Heather graduated from Concord-Carlisle High School with the class of 1985. She earned an undergraduate degree in English from the University of Massachusetts in Amherst, and her MBA from University of New Mexico. During her youth, Heather found a love for photography. She also became interested in writing, which led her to become a published poet. She faced early life medical issues with steadfast resilience and courage, channeling a tenacious spirit within, which resulted in overcoming the odds every time.
Heather pursued a career in finance. For ten years, she resided in Santa Fe, where she developed lasting friendships while working for the Gerald Peters Corporation. A profound love for her hometown and a desire to be closer to family prompted her to re-settle in Concord in 2005. She was employed as a Corporate Controller for Global Organics in Cambridge.
She was an active member of First Parish in Concord and enjoyed the goddess spirit shared with the church’s Women Circle. Her discovery of Star Island retreat center as a member of First Parish youth organization in high school inspired more recent participation in week-long meditation retreats with her sister in that beloved community.
Heather embodied a “support local” mentality. She was a volunteer for the Concord Carlisle Community Chest, and took great delight in attending events at the Umbrella Arts Center and 51 Walden Performing Arts. Heather enjoyed supporting the Concord Museum as well as local businesses and restaurants, making many dear friends along the way. No matter the weather, she treasured every Saturday morning spent with her dog at Emerson Field.
Heather is survived by her father, Peter MacPhee and his wife Bonnie of Middleton, her twin sister Natalie Brown and her husband Kevin of Concord, and her brother, Anthony D. MacPhee and his wife Sarah of Harvard. She was proud of her title as “Auntie Heather” to Philip, Andrea, Mia, Taylor and all of their friends. Heather will be greatly missed by her partner, Richard Stewart of Boxborough, and her Black Lab, Shadow.
Family and friends are invited to gather for visiting hours at Dee Funeral Home, 27 Bedford Street, Concord Center on Monday, November 28th from 4 to 7 pm. A memorial service will be held on Saturday, December 3rd at 11 am in First Parish, 20 Lexington Road, Concord Center. Burial at Sleepy Hollow Cemetery in Concord is private.
In lieu of flowers, contributions in Heather’s memory may be made to Concord Carlisle Community Chest.
Arrangements are under the care of Dee Funeral Home & Cremation Service of Concord. To share a remembrance or to offer a condolence in her online guestbook, please visit www.DeeFuneralHome.com.
