Arlene J. Girouard

We celebrate the life of Arlene J. (Jay) Girouard, affectionately known as Jay Jay, who was born on February 12, 1940, in Gardner, Massachusetts, and peacefully passed away on November 26, 2024. Arlene was an embodiment of compassion, love, and thoughtful supportiveness, a beacon of light in the lives of those fortunate enough to be close to her. She was a steadfast pillar of her family and a friend to many, always ready to lend a listening ear or a helping hand. 

Arlene's work ethic was admirable, beginning her career as a teenager at the 5 x Dime store in Downtown Gardner. This resilience and dedication to her craft led her to a fulfilling 20-year tenure at Simplex Time Recorder, from where she retired in 1999. Outside of work, Arlene was an active soul. She loved frequenting the Seacoast Fitness Center in Wells, Maine, for aerobics and enjoyed yoga at The Gardner Senior Center after returning from living in Wells and Waterboro Maine for 16 years. 

At home, Arlene's creative side shone through as she crafted beautiful latch hook rugs and Diamond Dot pictures. Her hobbies were a testament to her creativity and her dedication to maintaining a healthy lifestyle. A lover of animals and a believer in the power of giving, Arlene generously donated to charities such as The ASPCA and St. Jude Children's Research Hospital.

Arlene leaves behind her loving family: grandchildren Alicia (Wade) Allaire, Stephanie (James) Roncarati, Alan Fournier and Jennifer Girouard, great-grandchildren Amelia Allaire and Nora Roncarati, daughter-in-law Kathaleen Girouard, Caregiver/Friend Jessica Prentiss and daughter Michelle Beaudette

She was preceded in death by her loving husband of 56 years Raymond Girouard, her son Jeff Girouard, and her parents John and Irene Jay.

Arlene's life was a testament to the power of love, resilience, and generosity. Her spirit will continue to live on in the hearts of those she touched, and her memory will always be cherished. We invite you to share your memories of Arlene and upload photos to the memorial page at www.mackfamilyfh.com, as we collectively remember and honor her remarkable life.

The family suggests memorial donations be made in Arlene’s memory to the St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, 262 Danny Thomas Place, Memphis, TN 38105.

Stone-Ladeau Funeral Home, 343 Central St., Winchendon. 

Kevin J. Mack, Walter C. Taylor & Daniel Serina, Directors.