Dear Friends,

With deep sadness, I write to share the news that Elise Loring McCarthy, a longtime member of the Dining staff, died on Thursday, August 14. She was 62.

Elise, who devoted nearly 30 years to serving the community in Dining Services, is remembered for her dedication, generosity, and buoyant personality.

Elise is survived by her parents, Judith and George McCarthy of Swarthmore, Pa., siblings Evan McCarthy and Jocelyn McCarthy, two nieces, and a nephew. They welcome donations in Elise’s honor to the Scott Arboretum & Gardens for a dedicated tree. Plans for a memorial are forthcoming. 

I invite you to read more below about Elise and her many contributions to our community. 

Sincerely,
Val Smith
President

In Honor of Longtime Dining Staff Member Elise McCarthy 

Elise Loring McCarthy, a utility associate in Dining Services for 28 years, died on Thursday, Aug. 14, at 62. With her passing, the Swarthmore community has lost a hardworking, joyous, and steadfast community member who was beloved by her colleagues.

“Elise was more than just a dedicated team member,” says Director of Dining Services Linda McDougall. “She was kind and had a smile that lit up the room. Her quiet strength, grace, and unwavering work ethic left a lasting impact on all of us.”

“I watched countless times as our coworkers lit up with smiles as she waved hello,” says Food and Service Associate Alycia Negron. “Elise was truly a light in the dining hall.” 

“Elise exuded joy,” says Assistant Administrative Services Manager Patti Woods. Whether she greeted coworkers each morning with a special handshake or with ASL she had taught them, Woods says “every greeting was with a big, enthusiastic smile. She spread happiness.”

McCarthy was born deaf and communicated by writing and sign language. She grew up in Swarthmore, where she was a longtime member of Swarthmore Presbyterian Church and volunteered for more than 12 years on the Parish Life Committee. McCarthy enjoyed success as a student at the Elwyn Institute in Media, Pa., and joined the College’s Dining staff in 1997. 

In addition to making her rounds every morning to greet her coworkers, McCarthy also routinely brought in homemade sweet treats, such as cookies and cupcakes. She also never missed an occasion to remember birthdays and other events with notes and cards, and maintained correspondence with several hundred people. Her colleagues remember her as a person who considered someone a friend after she met them for the first time. 

“Elise had her way of connecting with us all,” says her supervisor, Residential Manager Therese Hopson. “Elise shared her excitement of travels and family celebrations with us through cards and texts, always signed, ‘Love, Elise.’ It’s a pleasure knowing we all were an amazing part of her life, as she was ours.”

“Elise looked forward to our holiday parties, orientations, knitting and exercise classes, Garnet Day — any and all activities,” says Administrative Services Manager Lynn Grady. “To me, all of this was her love language.”

“I will miss the conversations we would have, writing in her notebook on our lunch break,” says coworker Jean Nilan. “She loved to host parties at her home, and you had to be sure to be picture-ready, as she loved taking photos. Her strength was truly admirable, and her positivity showed in the hardest of times.” 

McCarthy celebrated 25 years at the College during the 2023 Winter Gathering. Her colleagues produced a video to mark the occasion. 

In recognition of McCarthy’s love for the College and her colleagues, her parents recently established The Elise L. McCarthy Scholarship Fund.  

“In my mind,” Grady says, “Elise is now hearing laughter, singing songs, and enjoying endless conversations with the angels.”