Eva Elaine ‘Nana’ (Turner) Desharnais, 84, well known and lifelong resident of Tewksbury, died peacefully in the care of her beloved family at her family home. After a loving marriage of fifty-nine years, she was the widow of the late Roger Jean Guy Desharnais, who passed away in 2016.
She was born in Roxbury and was a daughter of the late William Frank Turner and the late Eva (Goss) Turner. She grew up and received her education in Tewksbury, completing her studies at Tewksbury Memorial High School. When she was 17 years old, she married Roger and began building their family.
Eva resided in Tewksbury her entire life and was an active member of St. Williams Church. She devoted numerous years to nurturing her family and tending to children, particularly her own children and grandchildren. During her later stages of life, she held a position as a cafeteria staff member primarily at Winn Middle School in Tewksbury Schools.
She had a strong passion for crocheting, particularly delighting in crafting heartfelt blankets as gifts for her family. She found great pleasure in listening to music, with a special fondness for Elvis, as well as basking in the warmth of the sun and indulging in dancing, a joy she cherished until her final moments. Her infectious laughter and unwavering commitment to her family will forever be cherished in her memory.
Eva leaves her five children, Roger and his wife Kittie (Nolan) Desharnais of Lowell, Sandy Mackay of Methuen, Mark and his wife, Margaret (Meuse) Desharnais of Methuen, Robin Dembkoski and Dana Desharnais both of Tewksbury; and her beloved 14 grandchildren and 18 great grandchildren.
On Wednesday, July 5, 2023 all are welcome to attend her calling hours from 10 a.m.-12 noon at Tewksbury Funeral Home, 1 Dewey Street, Tewksbury. Her funeral service will take place in the funeral home at 12 noon, followed by procession for burial at Tewksbury Cemetery.