Paulette Lacoste, 67, of Worcester, passed away peacefully Tuesday, June 5th in her home surrounded by her family and friends after a valiant journey with cancer. Paulette was born in Chicopee, the daughter of the late Paul and Eloise (Berube) Lacoste. She leaves her beloved husband of 11 years, Richard A. Gemme, Sr.; her brother, Richard Lacoste and his wife, Peg; her nieces and nephews, Denise Fitzell, Lisa Methot, Geralyn Gill, Amy, Anthony, Joseph, Peter, Eric, and Daniel Lacoste whom she loved dearly as her own family. She is also survived by a brother-in-law, Robert Gemme, a sister-in-law, Annie Donovan, and a dear aunt, Helen Gemme, her step sons, Richard, Jr., Adam and his wife Jeana, and Jason, and her grandson Adam, Jr., and great grandson, Gaige.
Paulette graduated from Anna Maria College and received her MA in Communications from Fairfield University. She taught and served in administrative positions as a member of the Sisters of Saint Anne.
Paulette dedicated herself to improving the lives of disadvantaged families in Worcester in her work in various non-profit agencies since 1983. Most recently, she was Director of Family and Community Development at Pernet Family Health Service. One of her greatest joys was accompanying individuals and families to realize their full potential.
Upon learning that she had cancer, Paulette invited people to support her through what became known as the “White Light Community” where she presided as the Hostess. This was a source of great comfort and consolation to her and to all who were drawn into this community.
Paulette and Richard wish to express deep gratitude to the oncology team led by Dr. Susan Zweizig at UMass Memorial and most recently to VNA Care Nework & Hospice of Worcester. Through their expertise and compassionate care, Paulette was able to journey peacefully in her last days.
A funeral Mass for Paulette will be held at 11:00 A.M. Saturday, June 8th in St. Columba Church, 18 Richards Avenue, Paxton. A calling hour will be held from 10:00 until 11:00 A.M. Saturday in the church. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Pernet Family Health, 237 Millbury Street, Worcester, MA 01610 or to the Sisters of Saint Anne Retirement Fund, 720 Boston Post Road, Marlborough, MA 01752. O’CONNOR BROTHERS FUNERAL HOME, 592 Park Avenue, is assisting with arrangements.