Pauline Ann McCauley

It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Pauline Ann McCauley (formerly Vigeant and Michael) on February 4, 2025, at the age of 83. Born on July 5, 1941, in Boston, MA, Pauline grew up in Dedham and Dorchester, where she began a life filled with hard work and a deep commitment to family and friends. Pauline was named after her mother, but those closest to her affectionately called her Polly Ann.

Pauline was a proud and devoted mother to her daughters, Stella and Polly (Kevin), and a loving grandmother to Maxwell (Danielle) and Travis (Rebecca). She was also a cherished great-grandmother to Lily and Sammy Jo, and eagerly awaited the arrival of a great-grandson in May. Pauline’s family was her greatest joy, and she took immense pride in watching her loved ones grow, thrive, and succeed.

A dedicated professional, Pauline worked for TWA from 1976 to 2010, serving as a Checker and Dispatcher for in-flight meals. Her meticulous attention to detail ensured that every meal was perfectly prepared, even for VIP flights, including those for the Los Angeles Dodgers in the 1980s and ’90s, celebrities, and the Pope. Pauline fondly remembered her time at TWA and later at American Airlines after TWA’s closure, and she cherished the friendships she built with her colleagues.

Her love for her work extended to her family. Stella and Polly fondly recall visiting their mother at the flight kitchen and attending the grand TWA parties in the airplane hangars. Pauline had a special way of bringing her love of TWA into her children’s lives, often showing up at school in her white coat and proudly handing out TWA wings to her daughters’ friends. Pauline flew her young daughters to Boston multiple times a year and she took her daughters to Hawaii and they always had the time of their lives together.

Pauline was preceded in death by her first husband, William P. Vigeant, and second husband, Dennis Michael; her parents, Pauline and Edward McCauley; her siblings, Buddy and Mary Lou; two precious grandbabies, Samuel and Samantha; two nieces and one great-nephew. She is survived by her sister Ellen (Richard), as well as many nieces, nephews, cousins, friends, and her beloved dog, Bailey, who is now lovingly cared for by Stella and Polly. Pauline’s love for animals, especially dogs, earned her the affectionate nickname "Dr. Doolittle" from those who knew her.

A lifelong Boston sports fan, Pauline loved Tom Brady and David "Big Papi" Ortiz. She returned to Boston in 2021 with her daughters for her 80th birthday, a trip that turned out to be her final visit to her hometown. During this trip, Pauline had the honor of being interviewed by the news while shopping at Patriot Place, becoming the headlining story that evening. It was a special and unforgettable moment for her and her family. Stella also took her mom to many Red Sox games at Angel Stadium. It became their annual event for many years. They started out in regular seats, but Stella surprised her with Diamond Club seats, and eventually, they worked their way into a suite, with Pauline’s family and friends surprising her for a fun night. Polly and Kevin took Pauline to June Lake many times, where she enjoyed walks, boating, and fun game nights—treasured memories. As she got older, she enjoyed trips with her daughters and her dog to Signal Hill, dog park and Palos Verdes, her favorite outings.  Pauline also enjoyed spending time with her grandsons, Max and Travis, spending countless hours with them just having fun.  Once, Max and Travis took Pauline in a limo to Andre Rieu in concert, which was one of the highlights of her life.  

Though she lived in Southern California for over 50 years, Pauline's Bostonian accent remained strong, and her famous words, "Stay safe," were a comforting reminder to everyone who knew her. She had a unique ability to strike up a conversation with any stranger, especially little kids, who seemed to love her as much as animals did.

In addition to her many talents, Pauline was a gifted artist. Few knew of her remarkable ability to paint and draw, and she also crocheted beautiful blankets for her family, each one made with love and care.

Pauline’s legacy is one of unwavering dedication, boundless love, and a joyful spirit. One could never meet a person who didn't say how wonderful she was. Her memory will continue to live on in the hearts of all who were fortunate enough to know her. She will be deeply missed but never forgotten.

Fly high, Irish Queen.

A Mass and Irish gathering will be held to honor her life, July 26, 2025 at St. Cornelius Church, Long Beach (time to be decided). In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made to the ASPCA, for the animals. Pauline was a life long member and donator to the ASPCA.

Arrangements are under the care of Forest Lawn, Cypress, CA.