Hyang Sun "Kim" Shaughnessy

Hyang Sun “Kim” Shaughnessy, of Waltham, died Tuesday, February 25, 2025, in Saint Elizabeth’s Hospital in Brighton. She was 78.

Kim was born on February 2, 1947, in Seoul, South Korea. She was raised and educated there before fate crossed her path with an American serviceman stationed at the DMZ. Watertown native Ronald Shaughnessy was a United States Army soldier when he met Kim while serving in Korea. The couple fell in love, and after his 13-month deployment ended, she immigrated to the United States with him.

Kim and Ron were married in Waltham on January 18, 1971. They made Waltham their home where they raised their two daughters and have been residents ever since.

She was a talented cook with a varied skill set across several cuisines, from traditional Korean to savory Jewish dishes. Early on, while raising the girls, she joined the New England Society of Korean Americans, and one of her favorite things was attending their monthly get-togethers on the third Saturday of every month. She made many friends who became like family. She loved showcasing her culinary skills bringing dishes to the event for everyone to enjoy. One of her very close friends there loved her food so much that she asked if she’d come and work as a chef at the Jewish deli she and her husband ran in Brookline, Ruth’s Kitchen. There, she would serve traditional Jewish, Korean, and even Chinese dishes. She was so popular that patrons would specifically ask for dishes she had personally prepared. Her family especially loved her chicken soup and her brisket. Kim also had a green thumb and tirelessly tended to her garden growing cucumbers, peppers, Korean chives, and the most delicious tomatoes.

She and Ron also enjoyed their getaways to Foxwoods, going four to five times a year since its opening. When their girls were old enough to join they made many happy memories together, especially on their annual Family Thanksgiving Casino Weekend.

Kim was predeceased by her beloved daughter, Mary Anne Shaughnessy.

She is survived by her husband, Ronald Shaughnessy and daughter Angel Shaughnessy, both of Waltham, along with many nieces and nephews.

Family and friends will honor and remember Kim’s life by gathering for an Afternoon Wake in The Joyce Funeral Home, 245 Main Street (Rte. 20), Waltham on Sunday, March 9th from 2 to 5 p.m.