Laura Mary (Haskell) Gragg, 87, of Acushnet died Thursday, October 7, 2021 after a long illness. She was the wife of the late Robert Gragg.
Born in New Bedford, daughter of the late Elmer and Laura (Babineau) Haskell, she lived in the Fairhaven and New Bedford area for all of her life with the exception of 13 years spent in Maine after her retirement.
She was formerly employed as a master barber and hairdresser at the Lemuel Shattuck State Hospital in Jamaica Plain for many years until her retirement.
Laura loved playing Bingo, reading, watching Animal Planet, going for car rides with her sons - Bill & Steve, and spending time at Ft. Phoenix enjoying the water views and boats. She also loved traveling to Alaska every September to visit her sister Pat.
She is survived by her daughter, Evelyn Bouley of Acushnet; her son, Steven Smith of New Hampshire; her grandchildren, Stephanie Smith, Alexia Smith, Evelyne Connors, Edward "Jake" Bouley, and Jenna LauraAnn Bouley; her sisters Terry Lundy, Bea Meagher, Florence Gauthier, Rose Bohn, Pat Benazra, Dee Tavares, and Dot Dery; and many nieces and nephews.
She was predeceased by her son, William Smith and her brothers John and Charles Haskell.
Laura's family would like to thank Brooklawn Social Day - Director Deb Lee, Karen and Pat for their years of making Mom happiest, being there with her friends, Project Independence's care from Kim and Peter, her chair car driver, and also Dr. Meisner from Hawthorn Medical for years and years of wonderful care. Lastly, Mom loved Jill, her amazing, gifted and wind beneath her wings - CNA.
In lieu of flowers, donations in Laura's memory may be made to the New Bedford Council on Aging and mailed, Attn: Debra Lee, to 181 Hillman Street, New Bedford, MA 02740.
Her Memorial Mass will be held on her son Bill's birthday, Monday, October 18, 2021 at 10 AM at Holy Name Church, 121 Mt. Pleasant Street, New Bedford. Burial will follow in Pine Grove Cemetery. For online guestbook, visit www.saundersdwyer.com.