Rita M. Shepard

WINCHENDON - Rita M. (LaFortune) Shepard, 103, formerly of 8 Highland Street, died peacefully Sunday morning, April 29, 2018 in Masconomet Health Care, Topsfield, with her family at her side.

She was born in Winchendon on January 23, 1915, daughter of the late Medart and Victoria (Boudreau) LaFortune and was a resident of Winchendon for most of her life.

Rita had worked for many years as a cook at the former Walter E. Fernald School in Baldwinville.  She previously worked for ten years as manager  of the former Tucker School cafeteria.  Rita also catered and made wedding cakes.  She was a member of Immaculate Heart of Mary Church, Winchendon Historical Society, Daughters of Isabella and Winchendon Gardner Club.  Her hobbies were making jewelry, playing the organ, baking and braiding rugs. Rita was also an avid fan of the Boston Celtics.

Her husband, George H. Shepard, died in 1960.  She leaves a son, Guy H. Shepard and his wife Elizabeth of Georgetown; a granddaughter Sarah A. Shepard; a grandson, Justin H. Shepard and  his wife Kathryn and many nieces and nephews.  Rita was the last surviving member of her family of 15 brothers and sisters.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held Thursday, May 3, 2018 at 11 A.M.  in Immaculate Heart of Mary Church, 52 Spruce Street, Winchendon.  Burial will follow in Calvary Cemetery.

Calling hours in Stone-Ladeau Funeral Home, 343 Central Street, Winchendon are Thursday from 9:30 to 10:30 A.M.

Memorial donations may be made to Winchendon Historical Society, 151 Front Street, Winchendon, MA 01475.

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