Linda Baldassari, of Westwood, passed away peacefully at home on Saturday, November 9th 2024. Known for her grace and elegance, Linda devoted her life to her family. Her greatest joy came from raising her six children and actively engaging in their lives; whether as a room parent, a CCD teacher, or as their biggest fan in the stands. She will always be remembered for her radiant smile, gentle spirit, and unwavering optimism.
Born on March 24, 1953 in Hyde Park, Linda was the beloved daughter of the late Joseph J. DeLorenzo and Helen (Woods) DeLorenzo. She was a loyal sister to her late brother Joseph C. DeLorenzo of Dedham.
Linda was a dedicated wife to Elmo Baldassari, of Westwood. She leaves behind a legacy of six children: Danielle Baldassari of Braintree, Nick Baldassari and his wife Heather of Walpole, Brian Baldassari of Walpole, Christina Ingham and her husband Andrew of Norfolk, Diana Bova and her husband Corey of Millis, and Lindsay Baldassari of Westwood. Linda was a proud and loving Nonni to six grand-children: Giuliana, Vivian, Lorenzo, Olivia, Antonia, and Lucia.
Growing up in Hyde Park, Linda attended Hyde Park High School, where she met her high school sweetheart, Elmo.
Linda continued her education at Aquinas College in Milton and began her career as a secretary for the President of Boston Gas. Although she enjoyed her work, she and Elmo dreamed of starting a big family. Linda and Elmo married in September 1975 and a year later welcomed their first daughter. Over the next twelve years, Linda gave birth to five more children and dedicated her life to their upbringing. She exemplified the role of a devoted mother, instilling in her children values of tradition, compassion, hard work, and the importance of family.
Linda loved summer months and as a child spent her days by the ocean swimming and water skiing. Wanting her children to experience the same joy, she and Elmo purchased a summer home on the Cape. She treasured those summers where they created lasting memories and where she taught her children to appreciate life’s simple pleasures like reading, swimming, fishing, and being on “Cape Cod time”.
In her later years, Linda was diagnosed with muscular dystrophy. Despite her declining mobility and reliance on a wheelchair, she navigated life with grace and poise, leaving a lasting impression on those who knew her. Her sense of humor and unique charm made everyone around her feel valued and special.
Linda’s family was her world. She cherished moments spent together. Linda’s loyal English Bulldog, Alexa, also brought her solace and companionship, rarely leaving her side. Of all the impressions Linda left on those that had the pleasure of knowing her, it is the memory of her always with a child in her arms or on her lap that is remembered most. Linda was as smart as she was beautiful.
Visiting hours at the George F. Doherty & Sons Funeral Home, 456 High St. Dedham on Wednesday, November 13, from 4-7PM. Funeral from the funeral home on Thursday, November 14, at 9:30AM followed by a funeral Mass in St. Mary Church, Dedham at 10:30am. Relatives and friends kindly invited. Interment in Brookdale Cemetery, Dedham. In lieu of flowers expressions of sympathy may be made in Linda’s memory to Muscular Dystrophy Association at www.mda.org.