Roberta M. “Bobbie” (Peluso) (Shields) Avitabile, age 88, of Raynham, died peacefully in her sleep on Monday, May 27, 2024. She was the wife of the late Louis Avitabile and the late Robert Shields. Bobbie was born, raised and educated in Brockton, daughter of the late Louis and Rose (Lachimia) Peluso.
For many years she owned and operated hair salons in Brockton and in 1972 she and her sister Lois opened the Looking Glass Beauty Salon. After 55 years as a hairdresser, Bobbie retired at the age of 85.
Bobbie was a loving and giving person to her family and others. She was happiest when spending time with her grandchildren and sharing with them her fun-loving side. An accomplished cake decorator, Bobbie won several awards for her cakes. She also enjoyed cooking and collecting Depression glass.
Roberta was the mother of Colleen “Pokie” Cotter and her husband James of Raynham, John Shields of Raynham and the late Robert Shields. She was the grandmother of Tyler Cotter and his wife Michelle of Stoughton and great grandmother to their children Tommy and Teddy, grandmother of Trevor Cotter and his wife Jenn of Raynham and great grandmother to their children Max and Maisie, grandmother of Trent Cotter and his husband Joaquin of Brooklyn and Colleen Bradford of Florida. She was the sister of Brenda “Alice” Peluso of Brockton and the late Phyllis Patricelli, Lois DeCosta, Rosemary Morse, Anthony Peluso and Gary Joy. She is survived by many cousins, nieces and nephews.
Private family services will be held at the Massachusetts National Cemetery.