Former Ward 4 City Councilor, First Female City Council President
Viola Gertrude (Good) Packard, affectionately known as Vi, age 85, of Brockton, died on August 13, 2024 at Good Samaritan Medical Center. She was the loving wife for 47 years of the late Philip W. Packard. Born, raised and educated in Brockton, she was the daughter of the late John F. and Irene (Woodman) Good, Sr.
Viola dedicated much of her life to public service in Brockton, serving as a city councilor for 16 years and making history as the first female president of the City Council. She also worked as the Director of the Council on Aging and spent 30 years ensuring the safe transport of children as a school bus driver. Her commitment to the community was profound and left a lasting impact on all who had the privilege of knowing her.
Beyond her professional life, Viola was a loving mother, grandmother and friend to many. She relished spoiling her grandchildren and shared many adventures with them, from cruising with her granddaughter Samantha to exploring flea markets and relaxing at the beach. Vi also enjoyed painting and crafts, vacationing in New Hampshire and Buzzards Bay and traveling the country with her husband in the family camper.
Viola was the mother of Valerie I. Packard and her husband Frank Gazerro of Brockton and the late Frederick Packard. She was the grandmother of Trevor Packard and his wife Vanessa of Foxboro and Samantha Packard and her partner Alex Lopez of Weymouth. She also leaves her daughter in law Laurie Dooley of Rockland, her sister in law Sandra Good of Bridgewater and her brother in law Charles Haskell of Wareham as well as many cousins, nieces and nephews. She was the sister of the late John F. Good, Jr. and Dorothy Haskell.
Viola's legacy as a dedicated community servant and a loving matriarch will forever be cherished and remembered by all who were fortunate enough to know her. The Packard family extends their gratitude to the staff at Good Samaritan Medical Center and Conley Funeral Home for their compassionate assistance during this difficult time.
Visiting Hours will be held at Conley Funeral Home, 138 Belmont St, (Rte 123) Brockton, on Monday, August 26 from 3-7pm. A funeral home service will be held on Tuesday at 10am, followed by burial in Melrose Cemetery. The family invites those who knew Viola to join in celebrating her remarkable life and contributions to the community.