Rachel I. Mafera, 90, of Derry, NH, passed away peacefully Monday, April 24, 2023 in Villa Crest Healthcare in Manchester, NH surrounded by her loving family. She was born on January 26, 1933 in Lincolnton, NC, a daughter of the late James and Annie (Reep) Ballanger. She had been a resident of Derry for the past 42 years, formerly living in Sudbury, MA. Rachel proudly raised her six children while working a variety of part time jobs. The job Rachel enjoyed the most was as a dedicated twenty-year employee for Meals on Wheels in Derry, working as a driver and a site manager. She truly loved the community she worked for and they loved her in return. Rachel was happiest while spending time with her grandchildren and great grandchildren as little ones always brought a smile to her face. She also had a great love for the outdoors and enjoyed spending time tending her beautiful flowering gardens throughout her yard on the lake which were admired by all.
She is survived by her loving husband of 70 years, William D. Mafera of Derry; five sons, William Mafera of Townsend, MA, Joseph Mafera of Shirley, MA, John Mafera of Stow, Maine, David Mafera of Tuftonboro, NH, and Gerald Mafera of Derry, NH; her daughter, Rachel Mann of Littleton, MA; sixteen grandchildren; and fourteen great grandchildren. Rachel will be missed each and every day by her family and friends who loved her deeply.
A celebration of life will be held by the family at a later date. Memorial contributions may be made to Meals on Wheels, Attn: RNMOW, 106 North Road, Brentwood, NH 03833. The Peabody Funeral Homes and Crematorium, 15 Birch St., Derry is assisting the family with arrangements.