Bette "Lorraine" Skaife

It is with great sorrow we announce the passing of Bette "Lorraine" Skaife, a cherished wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and friend, on June 15, 2024. Born on February 10, 1936, in Fitchburg, MA, Bette spent her entire life in the comfort of her hometown, Ashburnham, Massachusetts, where she thrived with the love of her family and friends. Bette, known by many as Lorraine, was a compassionate soul who dedicated her life to her family and the community, displaying boundless love and support to all who had the honor of knowing her.

Lorraine was a woman of many talents and passions. She found joy in the simple moments, whether it was spending time with friends at the adult day-care, camping, or sitting in her favorite chair with her loyal dog, Silver, by her side. Lorraine loved listening to audio books, watching game shows, and was always ready for a good laugh. She was a dedicated homemaker, turning her home into a sanctuary of warmth and love for her family. 

In 1957, she married the love of her life, Ronald Sr., and together they built a beautiful family that included their children: Ronald Skaife, Jr and his wife Mary Jo, Philip Skaife, David Skaife and his wife Lisa, and Wendy Leger and her husband Paul. Lorraine was a proud grandmother to seven grandchildren, and even prouder great-grandmother to ten great-grandchildren. The love she had for her family was the love that burned her soul forever. She is preceded in death by her father, Albert Lafreniere, her mother Rose Bresnahan, her step-father, William Bresnahan, Sr. and her brother William Bresnhan, Jr.

In celebration of Lorraine's life, we encourage friends and family to share their favorite memories and upload photos to the memorial page. Lorraine's spirit lives on in the stories we share, the memories we hold dear, and the love that remains in our hearts. Let us remember Bette "Lorraine" Skaife, not for her departure, but for the compassionate, dedicated, loving, and supportive life she lived.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in Lorraine's memory to the William J. Bresnahan Scouting and Community Center at 150 Center Street, PO Box 297, Ashburnham, MA 01430.

Bette's life will be celebrated during calling hours on Tuesday, June 25 2024, from 5:00 - 7:00 pm at Stone-Ladeau Funeral Home, 343 Central Street, Winchendon, MA.  

The Funeral will be held on Wednesday, June 26 2024 at 10 AM, Burial to follow at Massachusetts Veterans Memorial Cemetery, 111 Glenallen street, Winchendon, MA.

To leave an online condolence, please visit www.stone-leadau.com

Kevin J. Mack, Walter C. Taylor, and Melissa A. McQuaid, Funeral Directors