DEATH
|
John Thomas Gray
Nov 05, 2025 |
John Thomas Gray, age 100, of Trumbull, CT peacefully passed away November 5, 2025, at his residence at Middlebrook Farms surrounded by family. A member of The Greatest Generation, he was born on September 23, 1925, in New York City, NY to the late William Alexander Gray and Mildred (Holden) Gray. He graduated from Pelham Memorial High School in 1942. He enlisted in the U.S. Navy and proudly served during WWII from 1943 to 1946 and was an Ensign aboard the USS Defense in the Pacific Theatre. He graduated from Dartmouth College in 1947. He loved "The Big Green" and was proud to be the first of three generations of graduates. He married Doris Moore Gray at Huguenot Memorial Church in Pelham Manor, NY and they were together for 70 years prior to her passing in January 2025.
John worked in marketing and advertising for Booz Allen Hamilton, BBDO New York, Best Foods, the Guild Bascom Bonfigli agency in San Francisco, Ralston Purina in St Louis, The National Multiple Sclerosis Society and Mama Mary's Pizza. John was a former Elder and Sunday school teacher at Huguenot Memorial Church. He was also a member of Mattapoisett Congregational Church in Mattapoisett, MA, and former member of Toastmasters International.
John was an avid golfer and enjoyed sailing, writing poetry, reading, playing Bridge, sudoku and other games. He also loved to sing and dance, and played harmonica and piano. He most enjoyed spending time with his family. His pride and joy were his children, grandchildren, great grandchildren, and pets.
In addition to his parents and wife he was predeceased by daughter Susan Leslie Gray Cmejla, her grandson Craig S. Lancaster, his three brothers Duncan Gray and wife Jean (Campbell) Gray, William Gray and wife Joan (Blanchard) Gray and James Graham Gray and wife Joan (Fitzpatrick) Gray.
Survivors include his devoted children William Alexander Gray (Lynnette Cubeta Gray), Linda Gray Connolly (Jay Connolly), Karen H. Gray (Tracy Djerf), his brother-in-law Harvey M. Moore, Jr.(Vicki Moore), loving grandchildren, William, John and Lauren Gray, Kelsey Connolly Crawford (Ben Crawford), Ian William Connolly, Keith Lancaster ,Jenny Cmejla Herbst (Gregg Herbst) and Jeff Cmejla, his cherished great grandchildren Charlotte and Jack Crawford, and Caylin and Ashlyn Herbst, numerous nieces and nephews and his cat Penny and granddogs Lincoln and Silas.
There will be a celebration of life and military service for John on Saturday, November 15 at 11:00 am at Mattapoisett Congregational Church, 27 Church Street Mattapoisett, MA 02739. Interment will take place at a later date at Huguenot Memorial Church, 901 Pelhamdale Ave. Pelham Manor, NY.
Memorial contributions may be made to Moby Kit Rescue (Mobykitrescue.org) or Mattapoisett Congregational Church.
Arrangements in care of the Cyril F. Mullins Funeral Home, 399 White Plains Rd. Trumbull, CT. For more information or to leave an online condolence please visit mullinsfh.com
John worked in marketing and advertising for Booz Allen Hamilton, BBDO New York, Best Foods, the Guild Bascom Bonfigli agency in San Francisco, Ralston Purina in St Louis, The National Multiple Sclerosis Society and Mama Mary's Pizza. John was a former Elder and Sunday school teacher at Huguenot Memorial Church. He was also a member of Mattapoisett Congregational Church in Mattapoisett, MA, and former member of Toastmasters International.
John was an avid golfer and enjoyed sailing, writing poetry, reading, playing Bridge, sudoku and other games. He also loved to sing and dance, and played harmonica and piano. He most enjoyed spending time with his family. His pride and joy were his children, grandchildren, great grandchildren, and pets.
In addition to his parents and wife he was predeceased by daughter Susan Leslie Gray Cmejla, her grandson Craig S. Lancaster, his three brothers Duncan Gray and wife Jean (Campbell) Gray, William Gray and wife Joan (Blanchard) Gray and James Graham Gray and wife Joan (Fitzpatrick) Gray.
Survivors include his devoted children William Alexander Gray (Lynnette Cubeta Gray), Linda Gray Connolly (Jay Connolly), Karen H. Gray (Tracy Djerf), his brother-in-law Harvey M. Moore, Jr.(Vicki Moore), loving grandchildren, William, John and Lauren Gray, Kelsey Connolly Crawford (Ben Crawford), Ian William Connolly, Keith Lancaster ,Jenny Cmejla Herbst (Gregg Herbst) and Jeff Cmejla, his cherished great grandchildren Charlotte and Jack Crawford, and Caylin and Ashlyn Herbst, numerous nieces and nephews and his cat Penny and granddogs Lincoln and Silas.
There will be a celebration of life and military service for John on Saturday, November 15 at 11:00 am at Mattapoisett Congregational Church, 27 Church Street Mattapoisett, MA 02739. Interment will take place at a later date at Huguenot Memorial Church, 901 Pelhamdale Ave. Pelham Manor, NY.
Memorial contributions may be made to Moby Kit Rescue (Mobykitrescue.org) or Mattapoisett Congregational Church.
Arrangements in care of the Cyril F. Mullins Funeral Home, 399 White Plains Rd. Trumbull, CT. For more information or to leave an online condolence please visit mullinsfh.com
DEATH
|
Henry David Oberlander
Nov 05, 2025 |
Henry David Oberlander of Norwood, MA passed away on November 5, 2025 at the age of 29 from injuries sustained in an automobile accident. Beloved son of David and Beth Bruno Oberlander of Mansfield, MA, Henry is also survived by his brother Cal Oberlander of Queens, NY, his grandparents Ann Bruno of Mattapoisett, MA and Robert and Anita Oberlander of Rehoboth, MA, as well as many aunts, uncles, and cousins who adored him. He is preceded in death by his grandfather, William "Nonno" Bruno, with whom he shared a special bond. Some in the family suggested that Henry was a Nonno-in-training, largely due to his love of family gatherings, his big hugs, and his effortless smiles.
Born on August 8, 1996, Henry grew up in Mansfield and was an active and adventurous kid. He became obsessed with skateboarding, perfecting a number of tricks. This passion morphed into a love of snowboarding on Friday evenings with friends at Wachusett Mountain.
Henry was a member of Xaverian Brothers High School Class of 2015. After making the varsity wrestling team as a freshman but only recording one varsity win, Henry dedicated himself to improving his skills in the off season. He returned sophomore year and recorded forty wins. Henry went on to be named a captain, earn accolades including Division 1 South Sectional Champion, and place at State, All-State, and New England tournaments. At Xaverian, Henry also mentored underclassmen as a Spirit Hawk Leader. Perhaps his most significant mentoring was for his brother Cal, both socially and academically.
Henry attended Bridgewater State University and graduated in 2020 with a Bachelor's degree in psychology. While there, Henry captained the wrestling team and was a two-time NCAA Division III Academic All-American Scholar. After college, Henry became an avid practitioner of Brazilian Jiu Jitsu and represented Connors Martial Arts Academy in Norwood. His physical strength was impressive to his teammates at Connors who also valued his work ethic, humor, and warmth. In past years, Henry was a volunteer coach for the Mansfield High School wrestling team and was excited to return this winter to Xaverian to coach as well.
For five years, Henry worked as a laborer in Boston Local 560. This year, he attained a septic inspector license and pursued coursework to enable him to take on a role in his father's engineering business. Henry had visions of growing the family company.
Henry loved spending time with family and lifelong friends at the beach in Mattapoisett. He loved cooking, baking, and digging into meals that others had prepared; hot wings, charcuterie boards, pho, and steak tips were favorites, but he was adventurous and tried anything. Often, Henry was the one to pick the most exotic item on the menu.
Henry was gifted with physical strength, but his soul was kind, gentle, and generous. He took his role as eldest Bruno cousin to heart. According to a young Henry, his brother's and each successive cousin's first word was "Henry." Henry will be sorely missed and never forgotten; this Nonno-in training is leaving a formidable hole in the hearts of his loved ones.
Relatives and friends are invited to attend visiting hours on Friday, November 14, 2025 from 3-7 pm at the Sherman & Jackson Funeral Home, 55 North Main Street, Mansfield. His funeral mass will be celebrated on Saturday, November 15, 2025 at 11 am in Saint Mary's Church, 330 Pratt Street (Route 106) Mansfield. Burial will be private and at a later time.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Xaverian Brothers High School in memory of Henry D. Oberlander. www.xbhs.com/gifts-in-memory
Born on August 8, 1996, Henry grew up in Mansfield and was an active and adventurous kid. He became obsessed with skateboarding, perfecting a number of tricks. This passion morphed into a love of snowboarding on Friday evenings with friends at Wachusett Mountain.
Henry was a member of Xaverian Brothers High School Class of 2015. After making the varsity wrestling team as a freshman but only recording one varsity win, Henry dedicated himself to improving his skills in the off season. He returned sophomore year and recorded forty wins. Henry went on to be named a captain, earn accolades including Division 1 South Sectional Champion, and place at State, All-State, and New England tournaments. At Xaverian, Henry also mentored underclassmen as a Spirit Hawk Leader. Perhaps his most significant mentoring was for his brother Cal, both socially and academically.
Henry attended Bridgewater State University and graduated in 2020 with a Bachelor's degree in psychology. While there, Henry captained the wrestling team and was a two-time NCAA Division III Academic All-American Scholar. After college, Henry became an avid practitioner of Brazilian Jiu Jitsu and represented Connors Martial Arts Academy in Norwood. His physical strength was impressive to his teammates at Connors who also valued his work ethic, humor, and warmth. In past years, Henry was a volunteer coach for the Mansfield High School wrestling team and was excited to return this winter to Xaverian to coach as well.
For five years, Henry worked as a laborer in Boston Local 560. This year, he attained a septic inspector license and pursued coursework to enable him to take on a role in his father's engineering business. Henry had visions of growing the family company.
Henry loved spending time with family and lifelong friends at the beach in Mattapoisett. He loved cooking, baking, and digging into meals that others had prepared; hot wings, charcuterie boards, pho, and steak tips were favorites, but he was adventurous and tried anything. Often, Henry was the one to pick the most exotic item on the menu.
Henry was gifted with physical strength, but his soul was kind, gentle, and generous. He took his role as eldest Bruno cousin to heart. According to a young Henry, his brother's and each successive cousin's first word was "Henry." Henry will be sorely missed and never forgotten; this Nonno-in training is leaving a formidable hole in the hearts of his loved ones.
Relatives and friends are invited to attend visiting hours on Friday, November 14, 2025 from 3-7 pm at the Sherman & Jackson Funeral Home, 55 North Main Street, Mansfield. His funeral mass will be celebrated on Saturday, November 15, 2025 at 11 am in Saint Mary's Church, 330 Pratt Street (Route 106) Mansfield. Burial will be private and at a later time.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Xaverian Brothers High School in memory of Henry D. Oberlander. www.xbhs.com/gifts-in-memory
DEATH
|
Douglas Homer Watson
Oct 28, 2025 |
Douglas Homer Watson died at his home in Marion on October 28, 2025 after living valiantly with Parkinson's disease for 16 years. His beloved wife, JoAnn was by his side.
Doug was born in 1949 in Bryn Mawr, PA. to Anne Sweetser Watson and L. Hoyt Watson. He attended The Booth School, in Rosemont, PA and Friends Academy in North Dartmouth, MA. In 1967 he graduated from Phillips Exeter Academy in Exeter, NH and then attended Trinity College in Hartford, CT. To avoid being drafted during the Vietnam War he left college and enlisted in the US Coast Guard Reserves and served for 6 years.
In the summer of 1969, Doug moved to Freeport, Maine where he helped build Collins Brook School, the Summerhill school founded by his brother, Jacob, and wife, Sharon. As the school grew, he continued to be involved in the construction of new buildings. He also worked for Cookies, a construction company founded by Rick Leslie, a friend and architect of the school buildings.
In late summer 1973, having just completed his time with the Coast Guard, he threw away the wig under which he had hidden his long hippie hair, and headed across the country in a VW bug to join his sister Lea and friends on a commune in Boulder Creek, CA.
During six years on the commune, Doug became an excellent guitar player, became interested in the emerging field of solar heating, and got his contractor's license. For several years he worked in Santa Cruz building Bill Lee's line of ultra light race boats. Then for a year he attended The International Boatbuilding Training College (IBTC) in Lowestoft, England, a renowned training center for traditional boatbuilding and joinery. This is where he found his calling for wood craftsmanship and made the decision to move back to Marion, the place where he felt his heart truly belonged.
In 1991 Doug met JoAnn Jackson, a native of Marion. Three weeks later they decided to get married. In 1992 they were married on Ram Island. For 33 years he was JoAnn's devoted husband, companion and protector, and held her in the highest regard. Both being excellent and avid sailors they spent summers cruising the New England coast on the family Block Island 40, Swamp Yankee, with her distinctive white spars and red hull. Doug and JoAnn were avid birders and travelled to Guatemala, Panama, Costa Rica. Honduras, Belize, Mexico, Puerto Rico, Ecuador, Peru, Bahamas, Argentina, Trinidad and Tobago, Bermuda, Antarctica, Galapagos, Spain, France, Iceland, and Ireland on birding expeditions, even in later years as Doug lived with the challenges of late stage Parkinson's disease.
From 1995-2013 Doug worked for Ballantine's Boat Shop in Cataumet, MA as a ship wright and rigger. Doug was a skilled craftsman and fixer of anything that needed to be fixed on land or sea. His craftsmanship can be seen in two hand-restored houses where he and JoAnn lived on Pitcher Street and Oakdale Ave. in Marion, on the Altar in St. Gabriel's Chapel, in many boats that sail Buzzard's Bay and in the Herreshoff Museum in Bristol, RI.
Doug loved Marion, where he spent every summer of his childhood. Marion was his favorite place in the world. For many years he crewed for his cousin, Bill Saltonstall in 110s, Shields, J22s, and the J30, Arbella. Bill says of Doug: "Whether cranking a winch or undoing a snarl of almost any kind, Doug was the go to person on our boat, and he took pleasure in solving each challenge".
Doug was a family man, beloved uncle to his nieces and nephews. He taught many of them how to ride bikes, drive cars and sail and drive boats. He was gentle, generous and determined, never giving up on anybody or anything.
Doug is survived by his wife, JoAnn of Marion and Sarasota, Florida; his brother, Jacob Watson of Portland, Maine; his sister, Lea Watson, of Felton, CA; his sister Molly and her husband Rick Hawley of Ripton, Vermont. He was a loving brother and with JoAnn faithfully attended weekly sibling conference and video calls for over 15 years. He was also a loving companion to their dogs Molson, Jack and Reid with whom he had a mutual agreement to take care of each other. Doug is predeceased by his sister-in-law Kristine Watson, and his parents Anne and Hoyt Watson.
Friends, colleagues and family dearly miss him.
A celebration of Doug's life will be held on Saturday, June 13, 2026, Doug and JoAnn's 34th Wedding anniversary, at 10:30 am on Nye's Wharf in Marion.
Donations in Doug's memory may be made to The Michael J. Fox Foundation and the Community Boating Center in New Bedford.
Doug was born in 1949 in Bryn Mawr, PA. to Anne Sweetser Watson and L. Hoyt Watson. He attended The Booth School, in Rosemont, PA and Friends Academy in North Dartmouth, MA. In 1967 he graduated from Phillips Exeter Academy in Exeter, NH and then attended Trinity College in Hartford, CT. To avoid being drafted during the Vietnam War he left college and enlisted in the US Coast Guard Reserves and served for 6 years.
In the summer of 1969, Doug moved to Freeport, Maine where he helped build Collins Brook School, the Summerhill school founded by his brother, Jacob, and wife, Sharon. As the school grew, he continued to be involved in the construction of new buildings. He also worked for Cookies, a construction company founded by Rick Leslie, a friend and architect of the school buildings.
In late summer 1973, having just completed his time with the Coast Guard, he threw away the wig under which he had hidden his long hippie hair, and headed across the country in a VW bug to join his sister Lea and friends on a commune in Boulder Creek, CA.
During six years on the commune, Doug became an excellent guitar player, became interested in the emerging field of solar heating, and got his contractor's license. For several years he worked in Santa Cruz building Bill Lee's line of ultra light race boats. Then for a year he attended The International Boatbuilding Training College (IBTC) in Lowestoft, England, a renowned training center for traditional boatbuilding and joinery. This is where he found his calling for wood craftsmanship and made the decision to move back to Marion, the place where he felt his heart truly belonged.
In 1991 Doug met JoAnn Jackson, a native of Marion. Three weeks later they decided to get married. In 1992 they were married on Ram Island. For 33 years he was JoAnn's devoted husband, companion and protector, and held her in the highest regard. Both being excellent and avid sailors they spent summers cruising the New England coast on the family Block Island 40, Swamp Yankee, with her distinctive white spars and red hull. Doug and JoAnn were avid birders and travelled to Guatemala, Panama, Costa Rica. Honduras, Belize, Mexico, Puerto Rico, Ecuador, Peru, Bahamas, Argentina, Trinidad and Tobago, Bermuda, Antarctica, Galapagos, Spain, France, Iceland, and Ireland on birding expeditions, even in later years as Doug lived with the challenges of late stage Parkinson's disease.
From 1995-2013 Doug worked for Ballantine's Boat Shop in Cataumet, MA as a ship wright and rigger. Doug was a skilled craftsman and fixer of anything that needed to be fixed on land or sea. His craftsmanship can be seen in two hand-restored houses where he and JoAnn lived on Pitcher Street and Oakdale Ave. in Marion, on the Altar in St. Gabriel's Chapel, in many boats that sail Buzzard's Bay and in the Herreshoff Museum in Bristol, RI.
Doug loved Marion, where he spent every summer of his childhood. Marion was his favorite place in the world. For many years he crewed for his cousin, Bill Saltonstall in 110s, Shields, J22s, and the J30, Arbella. Bill says of Doug: "Whether cranking a winch or undoing a snarl of almost any kind, Doug was the go to person on our boat, and he took pleasure in solving each challenge".
Doug was a family man, beloved uncle to his nieces and nephews. He taught many of them how to ride bikes, drive cars and sail and drive boats. He was gentle, generous and determined, never giving up on anybody or anything.
Doug is survived by his wife, JoAnn of Marion and Sarasota, Florida; his brother, Jacob Watson of Portland, Maine; his sister, Lea Watson, of Felton, CA; his sister Molly and her husband Rick Hawley of Ripton, Vermont. He was a loving brother and with JoAnn faithfully attended weekly sibling conference and video calls for over 15 years. He was also a loving companion to their dogs Molson, Jack and Reid with whom he had a mutual agreement to take care of each other. Doug is predeceased by his sister-in-law Kristine Watson, and his parents Anne and Hoyt Watson.
Friends, colleagues and family dearly miss him.
A celebration of Doug's life will be held on Saturday, June 13, 2026, Doug and JoAnn's 34th Wedding anniversary, at 10:30 am on Nye's Wharf in Marion.
Donations in Doug's memory may be made to The Michael J. Fox Foundation and the Community Boating Center in New Bedford.
DEATH
|
Ward Reynolds "Renny" Maier, M.D.
Oct 26, 2025 |
Ward Reynolds "Renny" Maier, M.D., 83, of Marion, Massachusetts, died of multiple myeloma on Sunday, October 26, 2025, under hospice care at St. Luke's Hospital in New Bedford. He was the loving husband of Christine Walker Maier, with whom he shared 61 years of marriage.
Born in New Britain, Connecticut, Renny was the son of the late Joseph Ward Maier and the late Elizabeth Reynolds Maier. Renny attended Phillips Academy Andover and graduated from the University of Pennsylvania in 1964. In 1969, Renny received his medical degree from the University of Virginia. He interned in Surgery and Medicine at the Presbyterian Hospital in Philadelphia and completed his residency in Anesthesia at the Peter Bent Brigham Hospital in Boston. He spent a fellowship year at the Massachusetts General Hospital in Biomedical Engineering. Following his training, he served as a major at Scott Air Force Base for 2 years in southern Illinois under the Berry Plan.
Renny then spent 42 years living in Belmont, Massachusetts, honing his electrical, building and masonry skills, all the while being a devoted father to his son Robby and daughter Sally. During this time, he was on the Anesthesia staff at the Mount Auburn Hospital in Cambridge. After 25 years there, he continued practicing at the Massachusetts General Hospital starting in 2001. Renny retired in 2016 to Marion, joyfully continuing his early interests in boating and building.
In addition to his wife Chrissy, Renny leaves behind his son Robert Coburn Maier and his wife Jennifer of Marion, and his daughter Sarah Maier Friedewald of Boston. He leaves four cherished grandchildren: Owen Hobbs Maier, Charles Travers Maier, Eleanor Wright Friedewald and William Reynolds Friedewald. Burial will be private. A reception in his memory will be held in Marion at Tabor Academy's Hoyt Hall, 245 Front St. on Saturday November 22nd from 2-4 pm. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to Dana Farber Cancer Institute, 10 Brookline Place West, 6th Floor, Brookline, MA 02445 dana-farber.org/gift or to the Southcoast Health Nicole Podkowa Patient & Caregiver Fund, 141 Page Street, New Bedford, MA 02740 in memory of Ward Maier. Arrangements are with the Saunders-Dwyer Mattapoisett Home for Funerals, 50 County Rd. (Rt. 6), Mattapoisett. For online guestbook, visit www.saundersdwyer.com.
Born in New Britain, Connecticut, Renny was the son of the late Joseph Ward Maier and the late Elizabeth Reynolds Maier. Renny attended Phillips Academy Andover and graduated from the University of Pennsylvania in 1964. In 1969, Renny received his medical degree from the University of Virginia. He interned in Surgery and Medicine at the Presbyterian Hospital in Philadelphia and completed his residency in Anesthesia at the Peter Bent Brigham Hospital in Boston. He spent a fellowship year at the Massachusetts General Hospital in Biomedical Engineering. Following his training, he served as a major at Scott Air Force Base for 2 years in southern Illinois under the Berry Plan.
Renny then spent 42 years living in Belmont, Massachusetts, honing his electrical, building and masonry skills, all the while being a devoted father to his son Robby and daughter Sally. During this time, he was on the Anesthesia staff at the Mount Auburn Hospital in Cambridge. After 25 years there, he continued practicing at the Massachusetts General Hospital starting in 2001. Renny retired in 2016 to Marion, joyfully continuing his early interests in boating and building.
In addition to his wife Chrissy, Renny leaves behind his son Robert Coburn Maier and his wife Jennifer of Marion, and his daughter Sarah Maier Friedewald of Boston. He leaves four cherished grandchildren: Owen Hobbs Maier, Charles Travers Maier, Eleanor Wright Friedewald and William Reynolds Friedewald. Burial will be private. A reception in his memory will be held in Marion at Tabor Academy's Hoyt Hall, 245 Front St. on Saturday November 22nd from 2-4 pm. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to Dana Farber Cancer Institute, 10 Brookline Place West, 6th Floor, Brookline, MA 02445 dana-farber.org/gift or to the Southcoast Health Nicole Podkowa Patient & Caregiver Fund, 141 Page Street, New Bedford, MA 02740 in memory of Ward Maier. Arrangements are with the Saunders-Dwyer Mattapoisett Home for Funerals, 50 County Rd. (Rt. 6), Mattapoisett. For online guestbook, visit www.saundersdwyer.com.
DEATH
|
Jacqueline Ann Whitney
Oct 24, 2025 |
Jacqueline Ann Whitney, 93 of Rochester, Massachusetts and Barefoot Bay, Florida passed away peacefully surrounded by her family on October 24, 2025.
Born on November 4, 1931, in Beaumont, Texas, she was the daughter of the late Mary Hart Jones and Oscar Colquitt Reece.
Jackie married the love of her life, the late C. Mansfield Whitney, who she met while attending high school in Japan. Together they built a beautiful life centered around faith, family and love.
Jackie along with her husband, Mansfield owned and operated W.H. Dimali Transportation School Bus Company for 20 years, serving Middleboro and Lakeville. She later retired from the Commonwealth of Massachusetts.
Though she experienced the loss of many dear friends over the years, her heart never closed. She had a rare soul that she continued to make new friends wherever she went. There was always a seat at her table for anyone who needed one, a place filled with warmth, laughter, and love. She cared deeply for others and made it her mission to nurture every relationship she held dear.
She loved the simple joys of life: playing cards and bridge with friends, baking cookies, and tending to her garden. Above all, she cherished time spent with her family.
She is survived by her three daughters, Colleen McDonough and her late husband Mark McDonough, Marie Whitney and her husband Allen Demers, Laurie Whitney-Lawrence and her husband Glenn Lawrence. Along with her five beloved grandchildren, Bonnie McDonough and her partner Tim Ouellette, Kelly McDonough and her partner Mitch Buckley, Mark and Chelsey Lawrence, Gary and Samantha Lawrence, and Sara and Tim Desrosiers. Also, along with her eleven great-grandchildren and two great-great grandchildren, who all brought her endless joy. She was predeceased by her sister, Mary Charlene O'Toole of Florida.
She also leaves behind an exchange student who lived with them for a short time, Saichay (Bibi) and her husband Boontai Chantavy. Many dear friends and extended family members who loved her deeply and will cherish her memory forever.
A Celebration of Life service will be held at 11 am on Sunday, November 16, at Arch at the Meadow in Rochester, Massachusetts, followed by a luncheon where family and friends are invited to share memories, laughter, and love in her honor.
Her love, kindness, and gentle spirit will live on in the hearts of all who knew her.
In lieu of flowers, memorial gifts may be made to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital or to a charity of your choice.
Arrangements by Chapman Funerals & Cremations - Wareham. To leave a message of condolence visit: www.chapmanfuneral.comrsdwyer.com
Born on November 4, 1931, in Beaumont, Texas, she was the daughter of the late Mary Hart Jones and Oscar Colquitt Reece.
Jackie married the love of her life, the late C. Mansfield Whitney, who she met while attending high school in Japan. Together they built a beautiful life centered around faith, family and love.
Jackie along with her husband, Mansfield owned and operated W.H. Dimali Transportation School Bus Company for 20 years, serving Middleboro and Lakeville. She later retired from the Commonwealth of Massachusetts.
Though she experienced the loss of many dear friends over the years, her heart never closed. She had a rare soul that she continued to make new friends wherever she went. There was always a seat at her table for anyone who needed one, a place filled with warmth, laughter, and love. She cared deeply for others and made it her mission to nurture every relationship she held dear.
She loved the simple joys of life: playing cards and bridge with friends, baking cookies, and tending to her garden. Above all, she cherished time spent with her family.
She is survived by her three daughters, Colleen McDonough and her late husband Mark McDonough, Marie Whitney and her husband Allen Demers, Laurie Whitney-Lawrence and her husband Glenn Lawrence. Along with her five beloved grandchildren, Bonnie McDonough and her partner Tim Ouellette, Kelly McDonough and her partner Mitch Buckley, Mark and Chelsey Lawrence, Gary and Samantha Lawrence, and Sara and Tim Desrosiers. Also, along with her eleven great-grandchildren and two great-great grandchildren, who all brought her endless joy. She was predeceased by her sister, Mary Charlene O'Toole of Florida.
She also leaves behind an exchange student who lived with them for a short time, Saichay (Bibi) and her husband Boontai Chantavy. Many dear friends and extended family members who loved her deeply and will cherish her memory forever.
A Celebration of Life service will be held at 11 am on Sunday, November 16, at Arch at the Meadow in Rochester, Massachusetts, followed by a luncheon where family and friends are invited to share memories, laughter, and love in her honor.
Her love, kindness, and gentle spirit will live on in the hearts of all who knew her.
In lieu of flowers, memorial gifts may be made to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital or to a charity of your choice.
Arrangements by Chapman Funerals & Cremations - Wareham. To leave a message of condolence visit: www.chapmanfuneral.comrsdwyer.com
DEATH
|
Christopher R. Parker
Oct 21, 2025 |
Christopher R. Parker, 59, of Mattapoisett, passed away peacefully after a brief illness on Tuesday, October 21, 2025.
Born in New Bedford, son of Janet (Pacheco) Rego and the late Robert L. Parker, he lived in Mattaposiett most of his life.
Chris was a graduate of Fitchburg State University and was an Industrial Arts teacher in the New Bedford Public School system for 35 years. He taught at New Bedford High School and Trinity Day Academy where he and his students excelled in robotics. They traveled throughout the United States competing against other schools in underwater competitions and won many.
Brought up on the water at a young age he enjoyed captaining or working deckhand on many lobster boats, even his own. He especially loved bay scalloping. He enjoyed gardening and was an avid Cowboys and Red Sox fan. Game days were a must as well as his daily 4:00 visits to the Drake family.
In 2015 Chris received a Certificate of Appreciation from the Mattaposiett Board of Selectmen for his sole effort in saving a person who fell from their boat into Mattapoisett Harbor.
Survivors include his children, Hunter and Alexis Parker; his mother, Janet Rego (and the late Joseph Rego, Jr.); his brother, Daniel and his wife Karin and niece Marisa; his partner Gina Bourassa; Michelle and Jeff Munroe, Michael and Louisa Rego and many long-time friends.
His memorial visitation will be held Sunday, October 26, 2025 from 4-7 PM in the Saunders-Dwyer Mattapoisett Home for Funerals, 50 County Road, Mattapoisett. His Funeral Mass will be celebrated Monday at 11 AM in St. Anthony's Church, 26 Hammond St. Mattapoisett. Please meet directly at Church. Burial will be held privately at a later date. For online guestbook, please visit www.saundersdwyer.com
Born in New Bedford, son of Janet (Pacheco) Rego and the late Robert L. Parker, he lived in Mattaposiett most of his life.
Chris was a graduate of Fitchburg State University and was an Industrial Arts teacher in the New Bedford Public School system for 35 years. He taught at New Bedford High School and Trinity Day Academy where he and his students excelled in robotics. They traveled throughout the United States competing against other schools in underwater competitions and won many.
Brought up on the water at a young age he enjoyed captaining or working deckhand on many lobster boats, even his own. He especially loved bay scalloping. He enjoyed gardening and was an avid Cowboys and Red Sox fan. Game days were a must as well as his daily 4:00 visits to the Drake family.
In 2015 Chris received a Certificate of Appreciation from the Mattaposiett Board of Selectmen for his sole effort in saving a person who fell from their boat into Mattapoisett Harbor.
Survivors include his children, Hunter and Alexis Parker; his mother, Janet Rego (and the late Joseph Rego, Jr.); his brother, Daniel and his wife Karin and niece Marisa; his partner Gina Bourassa; Michelle and Jeff Munroe, Michael and Louisa Rego and many long-time friends.
His memorial visitation will be held Sunday, October 26, 2025 from 4-7 PM in the Saunders-Dwyer Mattapoisett Home for Funerals, 50 County Road, Mattapoisett. His Funeral Mass will be celebrated Monday at 11 AM in St. Anthony's Church, 26 Hammond St. Mattapoisett. Please meet directly at Church. Burial will be held privately at a later date. For online guestbook, please visit www.saundersdwyer.com
DEATH
|
Dr. Adel Yousif Shamoon
Oct 19, 2025 |
Dr. Adel Yousif Shamoon, 85, of Marion, MA died October 19, 2025 at St. Luke's Hospital.
He was the husband of Samira Jamil (Shaman) Shamoon.
Born in Bagdad, Iraq, son of the late Yousif Shamoon and Regina Habba. He was raised in Baghdad and Kut, Iraq. He lived in Scotland, England, California and Long Island before moving to Marion in 2001.
Adel attended the Medical College of Baghdad in Baghdad, Iraq. He worked as an Orthopedic and General Surgeon in Kut, Baghdad, and Busra, Iraq before leaving the country. He studied and worked in Edinburgh, Scotland and Coventry, England before immigrating to the United States with his wife and three young daughters. He obtained a Masters in Public Health from San Diego State University in 1985. He then moved to Long Island and worked at Coney Island Hospital as well as Interfaith Medical Center in Brooklyn, NY until his retirement in 2005.
Adel enjoyed spending time with his family, especially his three grandchildren. He also enjoyed having a Chippi Lite coffee daily and testing his luck on scratch tickets and lottery.
He is survived by his wife Samira; 2 daughters, Dr. Saba Shamoon-Michaud and her husband, Dr. Jeffrey Michaud of Mattapoisett, and Dr. Suhair Shamoon of Marion; 3 grandchildren, Mira Cristina Michaud, Joel Shamoon Michaud and Ava Regina Shamoon; 3 brothers, Montaz, Mofaq, and Nasret; and numerous nieces and nephews.
He was the father of the late Rasha Shamoon and the brother of the late Badre, Akobe, Evelyn, Mary, Suad, Saadie, Nazhad, and Hannah.
His visiting hours will be held on Wednesday, November 5th from 6-8 pm in the Saunders-Dwyer Mattapoisett Home for Funerals, 50 County Rd. (Rt. 6), Mattapoisett. His Memorial Mass will be celebrated on Thursday, November 6th at 9 am in St. Anthony's Church 26 Hammond St. Mattapoisett. Burial will follow in the Evergreen Cemetery in Marion. In lieu of flowers, remembrances may be made to "Plant Trees In Remembrance" below in his memory.
For directions and guestbook, visit www.saundersdwyer.com.
He was the husband of Samira Jamil (Shaman) Shamoon.
Born in Bagdad, Iraq, son of the late Yousif Shamoon and Regina Habba. He was raised in Baghdad and Kut, Iraq. He lived in Scotland, England, California and Long Island before moving to Marion in 2001.
Adel attended the Medical College of Baghdad in Baghdad, Iraq. He worked as an Orthopedic and General Surgeon in Kut, Baghdad, and Busra, Iraq before leaving the country. He studied and worked in Edinburgh, Scotland and Coventry, England before immigrating to the United States with his wife and three young daughters. He obtained a Masters in Public Health from San Diego State University in 1985. He then moved to Long Island and worked at Coney Island Hospital as well as Interfaith Medical Center in Brooklyn, NY until his retirement in 2005.
Adel enjoyed spending time with his family, especially his three grandchildren. He also enjoyed having a Chippi Lite coffee daily and testing his luck on scratch tickets and lottery.
He is survived by his wife Samira; 2 daughters, Dr. Saba Shamoon-Michaud and her husband, Dr. Jeffrey Michaud of Mattapoisett, and Dr. Suhair Shamoon of Marion; 3 grandchildren, Mira Cristina Michaud, Joel Shamoon Michaud and Ava Regina Shamoon; 3 brothers, Montaz, Mofaq, and Nasret; and numerous nieces and nephews.
He was the father of the late Rasha Shamoon and the brother of the late Badre, Akobe, Evelyn, Mary, Suad, Saadie, Nazhad, and Hannah.
His visiting hours will be held on Wednesday, November 5th from 6-8 pm in the Saunders-Dwyer Mattapoisett Home for Funerals, 50 County Rd. (Rt. 6), Mattapoisett. His Memorial Mass will be celebrated on Thursday, November 6th at 9 am in St. Anthony's Church 26 Hammond St. Mattapoisett. Burial will follow in the Evergreen Cemetery in Marion. In lieu of flowers, remembrances may be made to "Plant Trees In Remembrance" below in his memory.
For directions and guestbook, visit www.saundersdwyer.com.
DEATH
|
Lissa "Lisa" A. (Sylvia) LaBelle
Oct 13, 2025 |
Lissa "Lisa" A. (Sylvia) LaBelle, aged 76 passed away on October 13, 2025 at the Royal Skilled Nursing Facility in Fairhaven, MA from Alzheimer's. She was the daughter of the late Grace Hammond and Ernest Sylvia. Predeceased by her sister Donna Sylvia of Palm Harbor FL. She is survived by her sister Patricia "Patty" Dearth and her husband Lee of Palm Harbor FL. She leaves behind three children Billy "Shawn" LaBelle of Rochester MA, Daniel "Danny" LaBelle and his wife Maria of Mattapoisett MA, daughter Deborah "Debbie" Charette of Wareham MA. She was aunt to Samanth "Sam" Freeland of Oldsmar FL and Andrea "Andy" Davison of Tampa FL. Grandmother to Amber LaBelle, Christoper "Chris" LaBelle, and Ava Hardy.
Lisa's early years were spent in Clearwater, FL, where she graduated from Dunedin High School and attended beauty school. She later moved to Southeastern Massachusetts and worked in retail. Lisa enjoyed dancing, swimming, Disney movies, trips to the zoo, and family holidays. She was happiest when playing on the floor with her grandchildren during their younger years.
Lisa was a gentle soul who always held a deep longing to return to her childhood hometown. At a future date, private services will be held, and her ashes will be returned to her hometown to be spread in the gulf.
Her children extend their heartfelt gratitude to the staff at Nemasket Healthcare, The Royal Healthcare of Fairhaven and Trinity Hospice Services for their dedication, compassion, and support throughout her final years.
Her services will be private. Arrangements are with the Saunders-Dwyer Mattapoisett Home for Funerals, 50 County Rd. (Rt. 6), Mattapoisett. For online guestbook, visit www.saundersdwyer.com.
Lisa's early years were spent in Clearwater, FL, where she graduated from Dunedin High School and attended beauty school. She later moved to Southeastern Massachusetts and worked in retail. Lisa enjoyed dancing, swimming, Disney movies, trips to the zoo, and family holidays. She was happiest when playing on the floor with her grandchildren during their younger years.
Lisa was a gentle soul who always held a deep longing to return to her childhood hometown. At a future date, private services will be held, and her ashes will be returned to her hometown to be spread in the gulf.
Her children extend their heartfelt gratitude to the staff at Nemasket Healthcare, The Royal Healthcare of Fairhaven and Trinity Hospice Services for their dedication, compassion, and support throughout her final years.
Her services will be private. Arrangements are with the Saunders-Dwyer Mattapoisett Home for Funerals, 50 County Rd. (Rt. 6), Mattapoisett. For online guestbook, visit www.saundersdwyer.com.
DEATH
|
Wilfred F. Demarais Jr
Oct 13, 2025 |
Wilfred F. Demarais Jr, 79, of Mattapoisett, MA passed away at Tobey Hospital on October 13, 2025 surrounded by the love of family and friends.
Will was born in Greenfield, MA on April 15, 1946 to Roseanna (Chagnon) and Wilfred Demarais, Sr. He was brought up in Colrain, MA and graduated from Arms Academy in 1969.
He joined the U.S. Air Force and his love of traveling began while being stationed in several states and Thailand. In 1971 he married Nancy (Webb) who he met in 1962 at a Grange square dance in Williamsburg, MA. They were married in Silver Spring, MD and later moved back to Northampton and Easthampton, MA.
Besides his wife he is survived by his daughter Tanya Rottler and her husband, James, granddaughters Abigail and Hannah and great grandson Jason. He also leaves two sisters, Cecile Carr (Joel) and Marie Jardine, and several nieces and nephews.
He is predeceased by his parents and his grandson, Daniel Rottler.
Will retired from the Veterans Administration Hospital in Leeds, MA in 2008. In 2010 he was given a new life with a kidney transplant, donated by Nancy, and was able to start traveling again. He loved visiting new places, especially in Arizona and Florida and any cruise port. His favorite cruises were to Alaska and the Panama Canal. He also enjoyed crafts, fishing, reading and playing with Jason.
His Funeral Service will be held on Thursday, October 23rd at 11:30 AM in the Saunders-Dwyer Mattapoisett Home For Funerals, 50 County Rd., Mattapoisett, followed by burial at the Massachusetts National Cemetery in Bourne, MA. For directions and guestbook, visit www.saundersdwyer.com.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the organization of your choice.
Will was born in Greenfield, MA on April 15, 1946 to Roseanna (Chagnon) and Wilfred Demarais, Sr. He was brought up in Colrain, MA and graduated from Arms Academy in 1969.
He joined the U.S. Air Force and his love of traveling began while being stationed in several states and Thailand. In 1971 he married Nancy (Webb) who he met in 1962 at a Grange square dance in Williamsburg, MA. They were married in Silver Spring, MD and later moved back to Northampton and Easthampton, MA.
Besides his wife he is survived by his daughter Tanya Rottler and her husband, James, granddaughters Abigail and Hannah and great grandson Jason. He also leaves two sisters, Cecile Carr (Joel) and Marie Jardine, and several nieces and nephews.
He is predeceased by his parents and his grandson, Daniel Rottler.
Will retired from the Veterans Administration Hospital in Leeds, MA in 2008. In 2010 he was given a new life with a kidney transplant, donated by Nancy, and was able to start traveling again. He loved visiting new places, especially in Arizona and Florida and any cruise port. His favorite cruises were to Alaska and the Panama Canal. He also enjoyed crafts, fishing, reading and playing with Jason.
His Funeral Service will be held on Thursday, October 23rd at 11:30 AM in the Saunders-Dwyer Mattapoisett Home For Funerals, 50 County Rd., Mattapoisett, followed by burial at the Massachusetts National Cemetery in Bourne, MA. For directions and guestbook, visit www.saundersdwyer.com.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the organization of your choice.
DEATH
|
William "Doc" J. Doherty
Oct 06, 2025 |
William "Doc" J. Doherty passed away on Monday, October 6, 2025. He was 84 years old. Doc was born in Brockton, MA, on August 21, 1941, and was the cherished son of the late William J. and Claire (Burke) Doherty. He was a graduate of both Portsmouth (Priory) Abbey in Portsmouth, RI, and Georgetown University Business School, Class of 1964. Doc began his career as a commercial real estate broker with Charles Noyes & Co. in New York City. After the family relocated to Marion, MA, he spent several years with Codman & Co. in Boston before opening his own commercial real estate business. Doc enjoyed golf, was an avid reader, and was well known for some memorable one-liners. He especially got a kick out of his grandchildren, always telling them to "shake the envelope" before opening their birthday cards. Doc was predeceased by his devoted wife of 55 years, Mary Weldon Doherty, and his sister, Paula Lehan, of Brockton, MA. He is survived by his sons, William J. Doherty, Jr. of Fairhaven, MA, and Joseph Burke Doherty (Jaime) of Dedham, MA, and his grandchildren Will, Jake, and Madison Doherty. He also leaves behind his nieces, nephews, and many loving cousins. Calling hours will be held on Saturday, October 18th, from 11 a.m. - 1 p.m., at Saunders-Dwyer Mattapoisett Home for Funerals at 50 County Rd., Mattapoisett, MA. A private burial will immediately follow at the Evergreen Cemetery in Marion, MA. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Manomet Conservation or Gnome School of Surf. For directions and guestbook, visit www.saundersdwyer.com.