Lena Jewell

CLAREMONT — Lena Jewell, 95, passed away peacefully Saturday, March 24, 2018, at Quaboag Rehabilitation and Skilled Care in West Brookfield, Massachusetts. She moved there March 29, 2012.

Lena, a lifelong resident of Claremont, was born Aug. 7, 1922, in Bradford, New Hampshire. She was the daughter of Albert and Odeanna Gaudreau. Lena was predeceased by her husband, Richard in 1976, and son Edward in 2002. She is survived by two daughters, Carol Bourque of Springfield, Vermont and Linda Labaire, wife of Neal Labaire of East Brookfield, Massachusetts and granddaughter, Alison of Medford, Massachusetts; three grandsons, David Bourque and his wife, Celeste of Claremont, Michael Bourque and his wife, Mary of Wilmot, New Hampshire and Edward Jewell and his wife, Jackie of New London. Also, granddaughters Odeanna Call and Marissa Hayes of North Carolina, and 10 great-grandchildren.

Lena had an infectious laugh, with a great smile. Her energetic personality always focused on the positive, and there was nothing this spunky lady couldn’t do.

She was a waitress at the Pleasant SWEET for many years, a member of Catholic Daughters, an eucharistic minister and volunteered at the soup kitchens. She belonged to the Red Hat Society and was a member of Curves until the age of 85. She took great pride in caring 25 years for The Adoration Chapel. Her Christian generosity knew no limits.  She was the “Hostess With the Mostest” when it came to preparing the funeral luncheons at St. Joseph’s and St. Mary’s.  Her kind, loving and thoughtful ways will be greatly missed.

There will be calling hours held from 10 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Wednesday, March 28, at Stringer Funeral Home, 146

Broad St., in Claremont, followed by the Mass of Christian Burial at 1 p.m. at St. Joseph Church. Burial will be at St. Mary’s Cemetery. Instead of flowers or donations, go have a nice lunch and toast Lena. She will be smiling down at the gesture.

To view an online memorial or send a private message of condolence, visit www.stringerfh.com.