Gertrude “Trudy” (Downey) Pecci peacefully passed away on August 30, 2026, at the age of 93, surrounded by the love of her family.
Trudy was born in Newfoundland, Canada, on November 18, 1932. At just 16 years old, she came to the United States, full of hope, happiness, and dreams for the life ahead of her.
Throughout her life, Trudy held several different occupations, including secretarial and waitressing positions.
In 1957, she married and settled in Arlington, Massachusetts where she spent many years raising her family of five children. In 1987, Trudy moved to Tewksbury, Massachusetts, and began a new chapter of her life as an empty nester.
Trudy was happiest on the dance floor, where she soon became known as the “Dancing Queen.”
She made many wonderful friendships at the American Legion in Bedford, Massachusetts, her favorite place to dance, where she could be found nearly every Friday night. In 1999, she met her match on that very dance floor—Mr. Harry McCrensky. Their wonderful relationship continued for more than 25 years, right up until the time of her passing.
Trudy was a devoted mother, grandmother, sister, and friend. She will be remembered for the love she gave to her family, the friendships she cherished, her strong spirit, and, of course, her love of dancing. She brought joy wherever she went and leaves behind countless memories that will be treasured by all who knew and loved her.
Trudy is survived by her five loving children, Marie, Debbie, Joe and his wife, Wendy, Mike and his wife, Connie, and Steve; her eight grandchildren, Evan, Eric, Shane, Cameron, AJ, Cheyenne, Tatum, and Anthony; and her two great-grandchildren, Aileen and Duncan. She is also survived by her sisters Margaret and Kay, as well as many nieces and nephews.
She was predeceased by her mother, Margaret Breen; her father, Francis Downey; her brothers, Gerald and Jack; and her sisters, Anne and Mary.
Trudy was a devout Catholic and faithfully attended Mass every Sunday until she became ill. Her faith was an important part of her life and brought her comfort and strength throughout the years.
Calling hours for Trudy will be held on Thursday, September 10, 2026, from 4:00 to 8:00 p.m. at Farmer & Dee Funeral Home, 16 Lee Street, Tewksbury. Her funeral Mass will be celebrated on Friday, September 11, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. at St. William’s Church, 1351 Main Street, Route 38, Tewksbury.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Trudy’s memory to the American Kidney Fund.