Dr. Roberta E. Keane, 54, of Litchfield, NH passed away peacefully Tuesday, June 25, 2024 after more than a 2 year courageous battle with Stage 4 pancreatic cancer. She was born in Somerville, MA on March 5, 1970 and had been a resident of Litchfield for the past 30 years, formerly living in East Cambridge, MA.
Roberta was always looking for opportunities to learn. She earned her Bachelor’s degree from Saint Anselm's College and Master’s degree from Rivier University. Most recently, while fighting her disease, she completed her doctorate program in educational leadership at Boston College. Her professional achievements include earning her superintendent’s license, being the Director of Student Services for the Lynnfield School District, being a Special Education Administrator in addition to many other roles.
Her dedication to childhood development was unwavering. She always looked out for the best needs of the children and families she served. Helping, advocating and teaching children were truly her passion. Roberta still had so much more to do on this earth with many goals and plans to teach at the collegiate level after retirement.
It was a difficult few years but Roberta remained strong throughout. She never cried or complained throughout her treatments. She never felt bad for herself but instead worried more about others around her, especially her family and closest friends. She was the strongest human being, remaining so until her very last day. If she had a motto it would have been “fight until you can’t fight anymore and do anything you need to do”.
Roberta is survived by her parents James and Nancy (Valentino) Rodrigues of East Cambridge, MA, her daughter, Katie Wallace and her husband Tom of Merrimack, NH, her son Michael Keane of Litchfield NH, her fiancé, Craig Lovely of Litchfield, NH, her daughter, Tiffany Rentas and her husband Cris of Cape Coral, FL, one grandson, Kyler Rentas of Cape Coral, FL, her brother James Rodrigues, his wife Jennifer and her nephew James C. Rodrigues of Stoneham, MA.
In addition she is survived by her beloved pups Ghost and Jetty, her cat Jack and many extended family members including specifically her favorite posse. Her guidance and inspiration will be missed by so many. She loved her friends dearly, and her family fiercely.
Calling hours will be held on Monday July 1, 2024 from 5 – 8pm in the Peabody Funeral Homes and Crematorium, 290 Mammoth Rd., Londonderry. A Mass of Christian burial will be celebrated on Tuesday July 2nd at 10:00am at St. Jude Parish, 435 Mammoth Rd., Londonderry. Burial will follow in Pine Grove Cemetery, 765 Brown Ave., Manchester, NH. In lieu of flowers please send any donations in her memory to Pet Partners to help share the benefits of therapy animals to those in need.
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