Mary R. (Turcotte) O’Connell 97, of Bellingham, passed away peacefully, Sunday August 28, 2022, at Milford Regional Medical Center, with family at her side, following a long illness. She was the beloved wife of the late Gerard J. “Jerry” O’Connell, who died in 2002.
Born March 15, 1925, in Lowell a daughter of the late Herman O. and Helen G. (Willett) Turcotte, she was a former resident of Franklin before moving to Bellingham.
She was raised in Lowell and trained at St. Joseph's hospital in Lowell MA, as part of a WWII Navy program, graduating with her R.N. She worked at Lowell General, The Boston Lyng-In Hospital, Milford Hospital, and the duration of her career at Wrentham State School. She received several commendations and letters of gratitude during her years of service.
Mary was always ready to go on an adventure or to lunch. Her motto was "You have to keep moving". She also enjoyed reading, word puzzles, nature, caring for others, and retelling family stories.
Mary enjoyed spending time with her family, especially her grandchildren and vacationing in Florida. She was a member of St. Mary’s Church, Franklin.
She is survived by her daughters, Helen M. Kelley of Medway, Janet L. Mulvey of Bellingham, Geraldine A. Scappaticci of Bellingham, Patricia A. Rossi and her husband Thomas of Wrentham and Annmarie M. Raposa and her husband John of Franklin, and a son in law Paul Vipraio of Franklin.
She was the mother of the late Mary R. Vipraio & Carol A. O’Connell, grandmother of the late Tara A. Rossi, sister of the late, Lionel, Robbie, James, Walter & Ernest Turcotte, Maude Therrein, & Dorothy Melo, and mother in law of the late Robert Kelley.
Also surviving are 14 grandchildren, 25 great grandchildren and 2 great great grandchildren. As part of a large family, she leaves behind many much-loved nieces and nephews.
Mary's family would like to extend their sincere gratitude to the many medical professionals who cared for her with compassion and kindness.
At Mary’s request, her service and interment at St. Mary’s Cemetery, Franklin will be held privately.
The Charles F. Oteri and Son Franklin Funeral Home 33 Cottage St. is honored to assist the O’Connell family.
Guestbook www.oterifuneralhome.com