Barbara (Staples) O’Rourke 95, a lifelong resident of Whitman, died Wednesday July 20 after a brief period of failing health. She was the beloved wife of the late Francis X. O’Rourke, Sr.
Born in Brockton and raised in Whitman, she was the daughter of the late Arthur and Svea Staples, and a graduate of Whitman High, Class of 1944.
She had worked for the NE Telephone Company, but was a most familiar face having worked for over fourteen years guiding customers at the former Saftler’s of Whitman.
She was also a lifelong and active communicant of the Holy Ghost Church, and had served with the Ladies Sodality for many years. In her earlier years she was a member of the Whitman Mothers Club.
She had enjoyed crafting, but her greatest joy was spending time with her children and grandchildren.
She is survived by her children, Francis O’Rourke, Jr. and his wife Beverly of East Bridgewater, Patricia Lupton and her husband James of Wareham, and Tara Vincent and her husband Glenn of Hanson as well as eight grandchildren, eight great grandchildren and one great great grandchild. She is also survived by many nieces and nephews. She was predeceased by her son Michael O’Rourke and her siblings, Arthur, John, Richard, Coralie, Anne, Paul, Larry and Shirley.
Family and friends are invited to attend her visiting hours on Wednesday July 27 from 10:00 am – 12:00 pm in the Blanchard Funeral Chapel, Plymouth Street (Rte. 58 @ the rotary) Whitman. A funeral service will follow at 12:00 pm. Burial will be in the Northville Cemetery, East Bridgewater.
Donations in her name may be made to the charity of one’s choice.