WORCESTER-Joan M. (Healy) O’Rourke, 81, formerly of 263 Stafford Street, died peacefully Monday, October 19th. She leaves her husband of 48 years, Michael O’Rourke; three daughters, Mary Sweet and her husband Michael of Spencer, Kathleen Lavin and her husband Mark of Worcester and Bridget Sonnier and her husband Eric of Cherry Valley; three grandchildren, whom she adored, Tiffany Sonnier Dotson and Hannah and Michael Sweet; two sisters, Bridie O’Shea of Ireland and Sheila Farley of England;38 nephews and nieces, all of Ireland and many nephews and nieces in Massachusetts. Six brothers, Jerh, Timmy, Den, John, James and Pats Healy predeceased her.
Mrs. O’Rourke was born in Headford, County Kerry, Ireland, the daughter of Paddy and Bridget (Doherty) Healy, and came to America when she was 21. She graduated from South High Community School in 1981 at the age of 53. Mrs. O’Rourke worked at Worcester State Hospital, was a lunch lady at both New Ludlow School and South High Community School and was a volunteer at Our Lady of the Angels School. She was a member and lector at Our Lady of the Angels Church, and was a member of the Ladies Ancient Order of Hibernians. Mrs. O’Rourke enjoyed traveling, especially to Ireland and Hampton Beach. She was an avid Red Sox and Kerry Football fan. She loved to sing and dance to Irish music and especially enjoyed spending time with her daughters, grandchildren and her three best friends, Joan Leary, Bridie Lucey and Mary Murphy.
The funeral is Friday, October 23rd from O’CONNOR BROTHERS FUNERAL HOME, 592 Park Avenue, with a Mass at 10:00 AM in Our Lady of the Angels Church, 1222 Main Street. Burial will be in St. John’s Cemetery. Calling hours are Thursday, October 22nd from 5:00 until 8:00 PM in the funeral home. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Our Lady of the Angels Church, 1222 Main Street, Worcester, MA 01603.