Mary T. (Omelon) Arivella, 97, of Lawrence, our very dear “Nana”, went to heaven early in the morning on Monday, March 22, 2010.
Mary was born in Hudson, NY, where she was raised and educated. She spent most of her life in the Methuen and Lawrence area, first working in the mills, and then working for over 20 years as an assembler at Western Electric. In her free time, Nana greatly enjoyed gardening, and she was very fond of growing brightly colored flowers and plants everywhere she has lived. She also enjoyed caring for many animals throughout her life, and was a friend to all animals she encountered, great and small.
Nana always remained young at heart, and it brought great joy to her to be such a large part of the upbringing of her grandchildren and great-grandchildren. She always loved spending time with them and was immeasurably proud of all they have accomplished. She was one of the most generous persons that you could ever encounter, and this trait is a large part of her family’s character today.
Mary is predeceased by her husband, Ralph D. Arivella. She leaves her daughter, Barbara Ard of Lawrence, and 2 grandchildren, Nikole Ard of North Andover, and Erik Ard and his wife Cynthia of Lawrence. She also leaves 5 great-grandchildren, Elizabeth Ard, Brittany Ard, Marissa Ard, Darren Ash, and Melanie Ard, as well as several nieces and nephews.
Nana’s whole family would like to thank the entire staff at the Academy Manor Nursing Home in Andover, MA, for treating her as if she were one of their own family members. The staff, nurses, and doctors were all very gentle and caring with her during her entire stay.
Friends are invited to call from 9 to 10:30 a.m. on Friday, March 26th, 2010 at the Arthur J. Scott Funeral Home, 298 S. Broadway, Lawrence, MA. A Funeral Mass will be held at 11 a.m at St. Patrick’s Church, Lawrence. Burial will follow at St. Mary Immaculate Conception Cemetery, Lawrence. Donations in Mary’s name may be made to Lowell Humane Society, 951 Broadway St., Lowell, MA 01854.