WORCESTER_ Ann Marie (Staruk) Rushford, 69, of Worcester, known throughout her life to family and friends as “Lolly”, died unexpectedly Monday, December 11, 2023, in UMass Memorial University Campus. She is survived by her husband of forty-three years, David J. Rushford. She also leaves her children, Michael D. Rushford and his wife Rebecca E. Z. Rushford of Whitinsville and Allison M. Freeman and her husband Michael D. Freeman of Holden; five grandchildren; Jack H. Freeman, Charles M. Freeman and Abigail R. Freeman, all of Holden, Wesley Z. Rushford, and Benjamin Z. Rushford of Whitinsville; four brothers, Henry Staruk of Knoxville, TN, Robert Staruk of Oxford, John Staruk of Holden and David Staruk of Millbury, sisters, Elaine Bradley of West Boylston and Joanne Staruk or Auburn; many nieces, nephews, and cousins. She was born in Worcester a daughter of Henry and Alfreda (Kazmierczak) Staruk.
Mrs. Rushford retired after several years as a legal assistant, most recently with Fuller, Rosenberg, Palmer and Belliveau. She graduated from the former St. Mary’s High School and attended Quinsigamond Community College. Ann Marie was a devoted mother and committed grandmother. A talented cook she was pleased to have her family seated around her table for Thursday night suppers or major holidays. She shared her talents and skills with her grandchildren, often helping them learn her traditional foods and treats. Along with David, they were always there assisting to taxi grandkids and attend their many events, games and activities. Always willing to share, she and her husband raised not only their children but hosted exchange students from many cultures during their life which creating lasting friendships worldwide. Dedicated to her family, she was the glue that held the family together and made sure ethnic traditions were understood and continued year-round. She was happiest when her family gathered together. Lolly was fun loving, enjoying traveling the world, reading historic fiction, theater and knitting. Taking after her father, she was a lifelong faithful Red Sox fan, traveling the country to watch them play on the road in the historic ballparks. Small in stature, she was a formidable woman with strength, courage and grace and she could laugh with the best.
Calling hours will be held on Sunday, December 17, 2023, from 2:00 pm to 5:00 pm in the HENRY-DIRSA FUNERAL HOME, 33 Ward St. A funeral will be held on Monday, December 18, 2023, at 11:00 am in Our Lady of Czestochowa Church, 34 Ward St. Entombment will follow in Notre Dame Cemetery Mausoleum, 162 Webster St.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to St. John, Food for the Poor Program, 20 Temple St. Worcester, MA, 01604 or Abbie’s House, 52 High St. Worcester, MA, 01609. The Funeral Mass may be viewed at www.olcworcester.com To leave a message of condolence, please visit www.worcesterfuneral.com.