Obituary: Robert P. O’Keefe

Robert P. O’Keefe, at 55

It is with great sorrow that the family of Robert (Rob) Patrick O’Keefe announces his sudden passing on November 13, 2024. He was 55 years young. 

Born on October 6, 1969 in Stoughton and raised in Norwell, he was the loving son of Elaine (Garmory) O’Keefe and the late Robert Donald O’Keefe.

A devoted husband, he shared 28 years of marriage with his beloved wife, soulmate, and partner in crime, Lauren (Whitcomb) O’Keefe. They built a beautiful life together in Hull, filled with lots of laughter, love, and music with their five children – Mark, Cara, Ryan, Mitchell, and Alexis O’Keefe, as well as his three nephews – Jamison, Carter, and Landon Lepenven. 

Mr. O’Keefe’s love for people stretched beyond his immediate family. He touched the hearts of everyone who had the privilege to meet him, including his large circle of lifelong friends. He loved to travel with his family and friends; whether it was a weekend trip to Mohegan Sun, riding Space Mountain with his kids, or relaxing on a beach somewhere in the Caribbean with his wife, he always brought his zest for life and his witty humor, which he shared with everyone around him. 

Mr. O’Keefe was an avid New England Patriots fan, classic rock enthusiast, and could quote a line from any song he heard or movie he watched. 

He leaves behind his brother James O’Keefe and his partner, Janet Lam, of Milton; his sister Kathi (O’Keefe) and her husband, Doug Willoughby, of Hanover; along with numerous aunts, uncles, cousins, nieces, and nephews. 

He will be missed dearly but will live forever in the hearts of those who loved him.

Family and friends are respectfully invited to attend the funeral service on Thursday, November 21 at 10 a.m. at the McDonald Keohane Funeral Home, 809 Main St., South Weymouth. Burial in Hull Village Cemetery, followed by a celebration of life at The Parrot, 1 Hull Shore Drive.

Obituary: Pauline M. McEntee

Pauline M. McEntee, at 90

Pauline Mary (Kirwan) McEntee, a longtime resident of Hull, passed away at home on Sunday, October 13, 2024, with her loving family by her side. Mrs. McEntee, known as “Mammy,” was born in East Boston on December 10, 1933, to Arthur and Rosetta (Freney) Kirwan, the third of six children. She grew up in East Boston with her brother and four sisters. The family later moved to Dorchester/Saint Peter’s Parish, where she met her future husband, Philip. After their marriage, they settled in Hull to raise their own family. Mrs. McEntee was a resident of Hull for 58 years. 

Mrs. McEntee worked at Abbadessa’s Restaurant in Hingham for many years, and later worked at Marshall’s in Hingham. She was a member of the Hull Lions Club, a longtime bowler with Webster Shore Lanes in Hull and then with South Shore Country Club Lanes In Hingham. After retiring, Mrs. McEntee was a volunteer at the Hull Senior Center.

She loved hanging with her family and friends on “the porch.” She was a “fashionista” and loved getting all dolled-up, going out to eat, “Girls Night Out” with her daughters, granddaughters, and pinot grigio. Mrs. McEntee loved sunsets, the beach, music, and dancing (especially to “Dancing Queen” by ABBA). She will lovingly be remembered sitting on the porch at 790.

Mrs. McEntee was predeceased by her husband, Philip J. McEntee, and is survived by her five children and their spouses: Joyce Emmett (Kevin) of Peabody; Christopher McEntee (Selen) of Saunderstown, R.I.; Kelly Connors (John) of Weymouth; Erin Smith (Michael) of Pembroke; and Stephen McEntee of Hull. Cherished “Mammy” of 11 grandchildren: Kathreen Lee Hood (Larry) of Hull; Edward Hood Jr. (Lauren) of Marshfield; Celia Rose Costa (Billy) of Medford; Kevin M. Emmett of Jupiter, Florida; Jack Connors of North Weymouth; Charles Connors of Weymouth; Leo Connors of Weymouth; Michael Patrick and Nora Kate Smith of Pembroke; Ela Christina and Atlas McEntee of Saunderstown, R.I. She was the Great Mammy of five: Louie and Declan Hood; Max, Georgia Rose, and Brynn Leona Costa. She leaves behind her brother, Philip “Bunny” Kirwan (Beverly) of Canton; her sister, Carol Hare of East Falmouth; her sisters-in-law Mary Connolly of Ashburn, Virginia, and Cathreen “Kitty” Andrews (Red/Paul) of Jamaica Plain; and many nieces, nephews, cousins and friends. Mrs. McEntee was predeceased by her dear sisters and brothers-in-law: Peggy Walsh (Bernie), Joan Fennell (Bob), and Betty Sullivan (Sully); Laurie McEntee (Mae), Nicki Kirwan, Jerry Hare, and Dan Connolly.

Special thanks to Mrs. McEntee’s nurses from Beacon Hospice in Plymouth: Heidi, Kyle, and Michael.

Visiting hours were held on Monday in the Pyne Keohane Funeral Home in Hingham; a funeral Mass was held in St. Mary’s Parish in St. Ann’s Church on Tuesday. Cremation will follow, and 

Mrs. McEntee will be interred privately in Hull Village Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be sent in Pauline’s name to Beacon Hospice, 32 Resnik Rd., #3, Plymouth, MA 02360. Visit www.keohane.com for online condolences. 

Obituary: Anita Leonard

Anita Leonard, at 98

Anita Gertrude (Zahn) Leonard passed peacefully from this life on October 6, 2024, at the age of 98.

Mrs. Leonard was born on January 21, 1926, in Boston to Arthur and Anna (Nadon) Zahn. She was raised in Braintree and after graduating Braintree High School, went to work at the Hingham Shipyard as a secretary. During the summer of 1949, she met her sweetheart, “Billy” Leonard, at Hampton Beach in New Hampshire. However, Mr. Leonard was soon drafted into the U.S. Army in 1951 to serve during the Korean War. After discharge, Bill and his “Teeta” married on September 12, 1953. They purchased their first home in Braintree in 1954, but moved to Hull in 1958 when their growing family required more space. Mr. Leonard had grown up in Hull and spent much of his youth working in the family business, Leonard Realty.

Their house in Hull was a historic 100-year-old, three-story structure, previously owned by the Damon family, for whom the Damon Elementary School was named. It was located atop Atlantic Hill and provided an expansive view of Nantasket Beach and Paragon Park below, where the screams of those riding the roller coaster could be heard on summer nights.

On April 21, 1963, that same roller coaster caught fire and embers from that fire, carried by the wind, landed on the wooden roof of the Leonards’ home, causing it to burn to the ground. The Leonard family subsequently moved to Bay Street for some years and continued to visit frequently, even after another move to Framingham, where they remained until retiring to Orlando, Florida.

In Orlando, Mr. and Mrs. Leonard enjoyed hosting visits from their children and grandchildren, staying active, playing golf and cards, and socializing with their many dear friends. After 33 wonderful years, Mr. and Mrs. Leonard returned to Massachusetts in 2019 to live briefly in Lenox before returning to their beloved Hull in 2020, when sadly, after 67 years of a very happy marriage, Mr. Leonard passed away. Mrs. Leonard soon after moved to the Residence at Penniman Hill in Hingham, where she made many new and cherished friends.

Mrs. Leonard is survived by her son, William F. Leonard, and his wife, Melanie, of Mashpee, MA; daughter Karen Stevens and her husband, Mark, of Hopedale; daughter Anne Zuber and her husband, Robert, of Hull; and son-in-law Stephen Thompson of Barnstable. Mrs. Leonard was predeceased by her daughter, Patricia Thompson, who passed much too soon, in 1997. She also is survived by seven grandchildren: Brett Leonard, Anna and Julia Stevens, Daniel (Kaitlin) and James (Avery) Zuber, and Emily and Patrick Thompson.

Burial service at the Hull Village Cemetery will be private. Condolences may be expressed at the Downing Cottage Funeral Chapel’s website, www.DowningChapel.com.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Pat Roche Hospice Home in Hingham and NVNA and Hospice at www.nvna.org.

Obituary: Kirk J. Farrell-O’Reilly

Kirk J. Farrell-O’Reilly

Kirk J. Farrell-O’Reilly peacefully passed at his home in Hull on September 19, 2024. Formerly of Brockton, Mr. Farrell-O’Reilly was the beloved husband of Christine Farrell-O’Reilly and the loving father of Sean O’Reilly of Waterbury, Vermont, and Kirk J. O’Reilly, Jr. of Brockton. He was the cherished grandfather of Cameron, Mackenzie, and Sofia O’Reilly, and the loving stepfather of Alyssa Atwood of Abington and Joshua Atwood and his wife, Audra, of Plymouth. Mr. Farrell-O’Reilly was the beloved brother of Patricia (O’Reilly) Buchanan of Bridgewater, Maureen (O’Reilly) Webb of Denver, Colorado, the late Mark O’Reilly of Chatham and the late Kevin O’Reilly of Beaufort, S.C. Mr. Farrell-O’Reilly also leaves many well-loved nieces, nephews and cousins, and his former wife, Madeline O’Reilly.

Mr. Farrell-O’Reilly joined the U.S. Marine Corps directly out of high school, serving four years of active duty, 13 months of which were in Vietnam. After receiving his bachelor’s degree from Boston State College, Mr. Farrell-O’Reilly worked for 30 years as a probation officer in the Brockton District Court, first for juveniles and then for adults.

An avid fly fisherman, Mr. Farrell-O’Reilly used beautiful flies he tied himself. In earlier years, he was a dedicated runner who participated in a number of marathons. He loved to read, garden, play cards and board games, watch the Red Sox, and spend time at Hull Gut, whether fishing or not. He greatly enjoyed spending winters on Pine Island, Florida.

Visiting hours will be held at the Conley Funeral Home, 138 Belmont St., Brockton, on Wednesday, October 23, from 4-7 p.m. The funeral procession will gather at the funeral home on Thursday, October 24 at 9:30 a.m. for a Mass of Christian burial at 10:30 a.m. at St. Edith Stein Church in Brockton. 

Interment will be at the Massachusetts National Cemetery in Bourne on Monday, November 18 at 11:15 a.m. The funeral procession will gather at the funeral home Monday at 9:45 a.m.

In lieu of sending flowers, the family respectfully asks, with gratitude, to consider making a memorial contribution in Mr. Farrell-O’Reilly’s honor to one of these organizations, or to a charity of choice: Old Colony YMCA-East Bridgewater, 635 Plymouth St., East Bridgewater, MA 02333; PeaceTrees Vietnam, 509 Olive Way, Suite 1226, Seattle, WA 98101; or SEMA Trout Unlimited (Chapter 241), P.O. Box 531, Bridgewater, MA 02324.

For condolences, visit www.conleyfuneralhome.com or search for Conley Funeral & Cremation Service on Facebook.

Obituary: John M. Walsh, Jr.

John M. Walsh, Jr.

John M Walsh, Jr., the “car guy,” passed away on September 29, 2024 with his family by his side after a courageous battle with lung cancer.

Mr. Walsh was a true Hull Kid, graduating from Hull High in 1975 and being named best dressed in his high school yearbook. Mr. Walsh was proud to be a member of the band Odyssey and a member of the Channel 7 Greater Bostonians. He continued his education at the University of North Carolina, graduating with a degree in interior design.

How did he go from interior design to car sales? His love of helping people. Mr. Walsh sold cars for more than 40 years. He met the love of his life, Jinnie Ryan Walsh, at a dealership when she went in with a service issue. The sales manager told him to take a ride to check out the complaint, and they were married a year later. They did trade in the car. John and Jinnie were married 30 years. Mrs. Walsh was the manager of Hingham Savings in Hull for 18 years. John and Jinnie were known by all as the banker and the car guy. You never left a conversation with Mr. Walsh without his business card in your hand and a referral to the bank.

Mr. Walsh was a Ford salesman at heart. He worked for many years at Dave Dinger Ford and remained with the dealership when it was sold to Herb Chambers Ford. Repeat customers were his favorite!

Mr. Walsh loved to cook and owned Big John’s House of Food in Randolph for several years. He was the king of thin crust pizza. He returned to his first love, car sales in 2008. In 2012 he was in a career-ending car accident, as he was no longer able to walk the car lot. A high school friend called and asked him to go with her as she looked for a new car and Auto Negotiators Unlimited was born.

Auto Negotiators allowed Mr. Walsh to do all the pre-work on cars from his home office, locate the car and travel with the customer to the dealership and negotiate the deal. Many dealers did not look forward to seeing him enter the dealership, as they knew their profit would soon be shrinking! If he never found a car for the person, there was no charge. He was very proud of this fact, reinforcing that the customer knew he was truly working for them. He always called Jinnie after each deal to tell her “Auto Negotiators did it again!”

In 2020, during the COVID19 pandemic, Mr. Walsh took great pride in assisting first responders and medical staff with their transportation needs. The deal now included a parking space at the Warren Street beach, as he felt these folks were working so hard for us, they deserved a restful day off.

Mr. Walsh loved his Golden Retrievers – Bailey, Seamus, Brady, and Dakota – all of whom predeceased him. His current Goldens – Mercedes, Bentley, and Maverick – are named after cars.

Mr. Walsh was predeceased by his parents, John M. Walsh and Vivian M. Walsh, brother Michael G. Walsh and sister Frances M. Galvin. He is survived by his wife, Jinnie Ryan Walsh, and his favorite niece, Erin M. Galvin, and her fiancé, Jon White. “Uncle John” is well remembered by his Indiana nephews – Christopher Walsh and his wife, Ashley, and their son, Calvin Michael; Thomas Walsh and his daughter, Nova; and Patrick Walsh – and their mother, Diane Walsh.

Mr. Walsh celebrated the 100th birthday of his mother-in-law, Virginia Ryan, in February 2024. He remained friends with many other “car guys,” as well as his fellow Hull Kids Jason Tabasky and Mark Forman.

Special thanks to the caring staff at Dana Farber Cancer Center and South Shore Hospital. Jinnie’s lifelong friend, Lisa Battista, was John’s personal chauffeur. Mr. Walsh did not want traditional services. There will be a celebration of his life next summer at Warren Street beach. In lieu of flowers, donations are requested to be sent to MorrisAnimalFoundation.org. This organization is researching cures for cancer in Golden Retrievers.

Mr. Walsh lived life to the fullest and was a friend to everyone. Beach Avenue will be quieter now as he loved to crank the radio, open the sunroof in his F-150 truck, and cruise down Hull streets. Rest easy, Big John!

For more information and online guestbook, visit www.downingchapel.com.

Obituary: Sharon Belisle

Sharon Belisle, at 61

Sharon Jane (Walsh) Belisle passed away September 15, 2024 after a long battle with cancer. She was born on August 20, 1963, the ninth of 10 children and the youngest daughter of William and Edythe Walsh. 

Mrs. Belisle was raised in the coastal town of Hull and graduated from Hull High School in1981. She married John “Jack” Belisle, of Woburn, on September 19, 1987. They lived most of their married years at their home in Weymouth, where they raised their son, Christopher Belisle. Mrs. Belisle cherished her role as mother, but her dedication and tireless efforts did not stop there. She was equally devoted in all her responsibilities and challenges throughout her life – most importantly, a loving wife, affectionate mother, caring daughter, understanding sister, compassionate aunt, and a dedicated employee at Travelers for more than 30 years. Mrs. Belisle’s gift of friendship was something special for all of us who were blessed and fortunate to be in her life. However, she was warm-hearted and kind to anyone she met.

Mrs. Belisle loved Nantasket Beach, spending time at the Cape with her husband’s family and everything relating to the ocean and sea. She was particularly fond of boating with Jack, or hanging out on the dock with friends. She was also a loyal and loving Dog Mom to her past Golden Retrievers, Benjamin and Teddy, and her current grandpup Mikah.

Survivors include Jack, her husband of 37 years, son Christoper Belisle (Alyssa Powers) of Weymouth; brother Richard (Linda) Walsh of Vonore, Tennessee; brother David (Connie Herbert) Walsh of Hull; brother William (Barbie) Walsh of Weymouth; sister Priscilla Walsh of North Attleboro; sister Beverly of West Springfield; sister Cynthia (Bob) Murphy of Hull; sister Gail Walsh of Hull; and numerous nieces and nephews.

Mrs. Belisle was preceded in death by her parents, William and Edythe Walsh, brother Paul Walsh, and sister Andrea Cassie.

The family will receive friends for visitation at Pyne Keohane Funeral Home, 21 Emerald St., Hingham from 2 p.m. to 6 p.m. on September 21.  In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to the charity of their choice.

Mrs. Belisle’s wish was to be buried at sea. The family will hold a celebration of Sharon’s life at a later date.

Obituary: Christopher R. Hidell

Christopher R. Hidell, at 58

Christopher Robinson Hidell, 58, of Hull passed peacefully last Wednesday, September 4, 2024, in Brigham & Women’s Hospital’s Dana Farber Cancer Institute after an arduous three-year battle with pancreatic cancer.

At the time, he was surrounded by his wife of 22 years, Tricia (Marshall) Hidell, daughter Celia Hidell, and parents Patricia (Darling) Meyer of Falmouth, Maine, and Henry “Bob” Robinson Hidell III of Hingham. He is survived by his stepmother, Cynthia (Toth) Hidell of Hingham and was predeceased by his stepfather, John H. Meyer, of Windham, Maine.

A birthright Quaker, Mr. Hidell was born on February 14, 1966 in Poughkeepsie, N.Y., where he remained for the first three and a half years of his life, living in residence with his two parents at Oakwood Friends School. As the family grew to include his two younger brothers – Bennett Hidell of Windham and Brooke Hidell of Casco, Maine – Mr. Hidell and his parents moved to Cohasset, where he came to love spending time on and around the water. Between frequent family trips to visit his four grandparents in Pennsylvania and attending Windham High School in Maine – Class of 1984 – Mr. Hidell had love for many places, but has always felt most at home out on the water that connects them all.

A true Renaissance man, Mr. Hidell’s insatiable curiosity and diverse interests led him to study various disciplines at a number of educational institutions. He ultimately earned an associate’s degree in architectural engineering from Wentworth Institute of Technology and a bachelor of science in art from Northeastern University. He was proudest, however, of his sculpture studies at Haystack Mountain School of Crafts in Deer Isle, Maine, and the recent acquisition of his Master 50 GRT Captain’s License after months of after-work night school in his 50s.

Before his more recent entry into the marine industry, Mr. Hidell completed roughly 100 kitchens from Maine to New York under his design/build cabinet shop, Hidell & Co., which he owned and operated for almost 20 years – right up until he received the colorectal cancer diagnosis that ultimately forced him to close the company in 2012. After three long years, 16 surgeries, and medical advice to perhaps not work again, Mr. Hidell beat the cancer and was hired at Steamboat Wharf Marina while walking the premises with the family’s beloved dog, Sadie. There, he served as dockmaster and general jack-of-all-trades before transitioning to work on the water for another branch of the marina, Aquamarine Services, in the job he frequently cited as the most joyous of his life. Most recently, he combined his various skill sets and lifelong interests by ideating and building the marina’s onsite restaurant, Red Sky (now The Drift).

Though Mr. Hidell had not been able to work since his most recent diagnosis, he found great enjoyment in a good cup of coffee, taking the long way home, walking Sadie around the marina, watching his daughter’s college adventures in Los Angeles, and generally spending time with his family in any and every form. Frequently citing his love of being alive, his impossibly positive aura and diplomatic spirit remained with him through his final moments and remains with his family now. In an effort to provide time for his loved ones to connect with one another,

Mr. Hidell requested to have a gathering rather than any formal service, which will be held this Friday, September 13, from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. at McNamara-Sparrell Funeral Home at 1 Summer St. in Cohasset.

In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation in his honor to keep his favorite places alive through The Trustees of Reservations or to Reel Recovery – a volunteer-based organization that introduces cancer survivors to the art of the very fly fishing that granted him peace in his toughest moments. Donations can be made at the following links: The Trustees (https://give.thetrustees.org/give/508795); Reel Recovery (https://www.reelrecovery.org/donate); alternatively, pick up a rod (and let the fish go) in his honor.

Obituary: Margaret L’Italien

Margaret L’Italien, at 73

Margaret “Marnie” L’Italien (formerly Gillis), 73, died peacefully on September 2, 2024.

Mrs. L’Italien was the beloved mother of Eric Michael L’Italien (Courtney), Michael Ronald L’Italien (Molly), and Paul Colin L’Italien, and grandmother of Rhys L’Italien and Colin L’Italien. She was predeceased by her brother, Colin Gillis Jr., and her parents, Colin and Marguerite Gillis. Mrs. L’Italien leaves behind two sisters who loved her dearly, Mary Gillis of Hull and Jean O’Brien (Dennis) of Attleboro. 

Mrs. L’Italien was born in Hull and loved growing up in the seaside community surrounded by her extended family. In her later years, she enjoyed spending time with her sons and being regaled with stories of her two grandsons and their antics. Private services will be held for family. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in Mrs. L’Italien’s honor to the Wellspring Multi-Service Center.

Funeral arrangements are under the compassionate care of Hamel-Lydon Chapel. For information and online condolences, visit HamelLydon.com.

Obituary: Shirley Ruth Francer

Shirley Ruth Francer, at 95

Shirley Ruth Francer died on September 5, 2024 at the age of 95. She will always be in the hearts of her family, her wide group of friends, and all the people whose lives she touched over the years.

She was born on May 26, 1929 in Mattapan to Dora and Harry Lakin. Mrs. Francer was a devoted wife, mother, and grandmother. She was predeceased by her loving husband of 72 years, Hecky, who was everything to her, and her family was the most important thing in her life. She is survived by her children, Sharon Francer, Laurence Francer and his husband, Jerome, and Beth Napurano and her husband, Chris; her brother, Eugene Lakin and his wife Terri; and her grandchildren, Harrison and Benjamin Wurth. She will also be missed by their father, Andrew Wurth.

Mrs. Francer grew up in a loving family and was very close with her aunts, uncles, and cousins. An ice cream factory and candy store were the Lakin family businesses, and thus her lifelong sweet tooth was born. She spent one year at the University of Miami and then transferred to Boston University, where she graduated with a degree in education and French. After marrying Hecky, they moved to Brookline, where she worked at Filene’s in downtown Boston as a personal shopper and briefly taught French before moving to Hull to raise their family. Shirley and Hecky had a large group of friends through their affiliation with Temple Beth Sholom, where Mrs. Francer taught Hebrew School and was heavily involved in both the local and regional chapters of Hadassah. Mr. and Mrs. Francer would travel with their group of friends to the Catskills and Martha’s Vineyard but, mostly, they just enjoyed being on the beach with family. Mr. and Mrs. Francer loved music and they were subscribers to the Boston Symphony for more than 50 years. They loved fine restaurants, but none ever rivaled Mrs. Francer’s cooking. She will be remembered for her gourmet cuisine, her impeccable taste in fashion, and as one half of a beautiful couple – Shirley and Hecky. 

Her funeral service was held in the Stanetsky Memorial Chapel in Brookline on Tuesday, September 10. Interment followed in the Shepetovka Cemetery, West Roxbury.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to Temple Beth Sholom, 600 Nantasket Ave., Hull, MA 02045 or the Dr. Ruth McLain Hospice House, 670 Washington St., Braintree, MA 02184.

Obituary: Joseph Michael Orsie

Joseph Michael Orsie, at 42

Joseph Michael Orsie was born on October 17, 1981 and passed away at the age of 42 on September 4, 2024.

“Joe” is survived by his mother and father, Linda Orsie-Boehner and Wilfert Norman Boehner, Jr. of Melbourne, Florida; his brothers, Matthew Boehner of Dorchester and Jacob Boehner and his wife, Dana, of Tampa; his sisters, Krista Orsie of Mexico, Maine, Tabitha Cardona and her husband, Shane, of Ashburnham, and Annjala Rock of East Sandwich; his godmother, Beth Donahue of Sebastian, Florida, and many other beloved family members.

Mr. Orsie grew up in Hull and attended Hull High School, where his energetic spirit and natural charm quickly made him a memorable presence. With an infectious sense of humor and a gift for turning even the briefest encounters into lasting friendships, Mr. Orsie never met a stranger. He had a unique ability to connect with people, striking up conversations wherever he went and brightening the days of everyone he met. He will be remembered for his larger-than-life personality and an even bigger heart that touched all who knew him.

A memorial service will be held at a later date at Our Lady of Lourdes Catholic Church, 1626 Oak Street, Melbourne, FL 32901, with a reception to immediately follow.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in his memory to The Gavin Foundation by visiting https://www.gavinfoundation.org/donate.

Obituary: Patricia A. Tighe

Patricia A. Tighe, at 88

On Tuesday, August 6, 2024, Patricia A. (Conant) Tighe went home to God. She was 88.

Mrs. Tighe was born in Weymouth to Edith M. (Wells) and George L. Conant. She grew up in the Weymouth and Quincy area and graduated from Sacred Heart High School. Shortly after high school, she enlisted in the United States Navy. When she returned, she began taking courses at Berklee College of Music. 

She was a talented singer and sang at the Lenox Hotel in Boston for many years. It was there that she met the love of her life, Michael Tighe. The two hit it off and were soon married. The two settled in Hull and Mrs. Tighe would go on to live there for more than 50 years.

Mrs. Tighe was selfless and generous with her time. She was a devout Catholic and an oblate of St. Benedict. Mrs. Tighe was the cantor at St. Joseph’s Church and Glastonbury Abbey. She was at the Abbey so much that she found a second family there. When she wasn’t volunteering at the Abbey, Mrs. Tighe volunteered at Hull Town Hall to help with registering voters.

Mrs. Tighe was predeceased by her loving husband, Michael; her parents Edith and George Conant; her sisters, Barbara, Marion, Blanche, and Marie; her nieces Pamela, Marjorie, and Leslie Ann, and her nephew Dillio. Loving aunt to many nieces, nephews, grand-nieces and nephews and great grand-nieces and nephews.

At Mrs. Tighe’s request, visiting hours will be omitted, and in lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Glastonbury Abbey, where she was a Benedictine Oblate and received her Benedictine name of Scholastica.

Relatives and friends are respectfully invited to attend the Mass of Celebration of Pat’s life, which will be held at the Glastonbury Abbey, 16 Hull St., Hingham on Thursday, August 22, at 10 a.m. Interment will follow at the Glastonbury Columbarium.

Obituary: Richard William Means

Richard William Means, at 75

It is with great sadness we announce the passing of our brother, Richard William Means, 75, of Houston, Texas, formerly of Hull and Durham, N.H. He succumbed to a short battle with lung cancer on July 26, 2024 and was surrounded by his loving family as he transitioned to his eternal place of peace and happiness in Heaven. 

“Dick” as he was fondly called by his family and friends, grew up in Hull. Being the oldest of 7, Mr. Means was always ready to give big brotherly advice to his younger siblings, even if they didn’t want to hear it. He attended St. Joseph’s Middle School in Quincy, followed by Archbishop Williams High School in Braintree. He excelled in academics and enjoyed success and camaraderie; running track and playing on the varsity tennis team. 

After graduation, Mr. Means went onto Suffolk University, earning his degree in business and marketing. He enjoyed being a student of academia and furthered his education, earning a master’s degree in business management at Northeastern University. 

As Mr. Means soared through the ranks in business, he achieved a position as regional sales manager in aeronautic engineering at National Semiconductor of New England. It was during this time that Mr. Means met and married his former wife, Mary (Healy) Means of Scituate. They bought their first home behind his childhood home, on Harold Place in Hull, after which they moved to Durham, N.H., where he and Mary raised their daughter Lauren and son Ryan. 

In 2004, Mr. Means moved to Houston, where he surged into the oil and gas business. It was during this time Mr. Means met his current wife, Annette Means, and they married in 2015. Mr. Means enjoyed his extended family with Annette, her two sons, daughter, and many grandchildren. His favorite times were enjoying family, being a member of the Knights of Columbus, and volunteering his time for people in need. He was a staunch Catholic and had deep faith in his life, his family, and the world around him. Mr. Means enjoyed sharing cigars with family and friends and was often heard saying his two favorite expressions over the years, “I’m a man about town!” and “Manischewitz!” 

Waiting to receive our brother Dick in Heaven are his parents, former Hull Fire Chief, Kervyn (Jeff) Means and Mary W. Means, his beloved son, Ryan Means, his brother Bobby (Numbas) Means, and his sister Virginia (Yinny) Winnett. Mr. Means is survived by his daughter Lauren Means (Jason), granddaughter Haley Donnell, sister Mary Means (Patti), brother William “Billy” Means (Renee), sister Carol Morris, brother Christopher Means, and brother-in-law, Jim Winnett. Mr. Means also leaves behind his nieces and nephews: Carolyn, Emily, and Abby Winnett, Catherine Morris and Derek Means (Mason). Mr. Means is survived by his wife, Annette Means, her two sons and daughter David, Christopher, Jessica Polnick; grandchildren David III, Benjamin, Kamryn, Kinsley Polnick, and Aiden Dricker, Gracie and Jackson Jones. Until we meet again brother, your memory will be burned brightly in the hearts and lives of your family and friends.

Obituary: Joan Stephanie Rozzi

Joan Stephanie Rozzi, at 80

Joan Stephanie (Mascioli) Rozzi, 80, died July 28, 2024 at home, surrounded by her family after years of bravely facing a chronic and ultimately terminal illness.

She was born in Hull on March 18, 1944, along with her twin sister, Judy, one of five children of Peggy and Nick Mascioli of Hull. She was an energetic athlete in her youth and early adulthood, a member of Belles of St. Mary’s drill team from the age of eight until high school graduation, where she fostered many lifelong friendships. Mrs. Rozzi had a highly social and friendly competitive nature, involving herself in many activities over the years, including dance, bowling leagues, and later golf, which quickly became a favorite activity. She graduated Hull High School in the Class of 1962, and was married the following year to the Robert G. Rozzi, Sr. until his death in 2023.

Together, they raised three children in Hull: Judy Robbins of Hull, Robert Rozzi Jr. (Susan Sanders) also of Hull, and Peg Cavallo (Mike Pascarelli) of Lakeville. Mrs. Rozzi will be forever loved and remembered as the nucleus of the family, her influence and importance reverberating in every cherished memory. Gatherings, especially in summer for beach days, were frequent and cherished by all. Her door was always open, with a parking spot for the beach and friendly visits guaranteed.

When she wasn’t working tirelessly as a nurse’s aide during her 36-year career in healthcare, she could be found on the beach engrossed in a good book, on vacation with her sisters, or taking care of the many and various needs of a large extended family. She was everyone’s biggest cheerleader and, at times, harshest critic. But with her, you always knew where you stood. She was smart, funny, silly, energetic, compassionate, always there if you needed someone to talk to, and always ready to laugh the loudest. Her generosity to her friends and family was boundless and only expanded as the family grew.

She will be deeply missed by her sisters and brothers-in-law, Patricia Gallup, Carol and Lou Dallesandro, Judy and George Fabrizio, and Nancy and Rich Hunnicut.

She leaves behind eight grandchildren: Stefani Corrigan (Chris), Marshall Cavallo, Theo Cavallo, Sandra Robbins, Michaela Robbins, Alissa Marcinkewich (Chuck), Robert Rozzi III (Meghan Millian), and Amanda Rozzi. Also, five great-grandchildren: Josefene, Christopher, Henry, Kamdyn, and Kinsey, all of whom were the greatest source of joy in her life.

Visiting hours were held on Wednesday, August 7, at the Pyne Keohane Funeral Home, Hingham. A Celebration of Life Service will be held in the funeral home at 9:30 a.m. on Thursday prior to the funeral Mass in St. Mary’s Parish in St. Ann’s Church at 10:30 a.m. Cremation will follow. Visit www.keohane.com for online condolences.

Obituary: Virginia T. Lyons

Virginia T. Lyons, at 99

Virginia T. “Ginny/Gigi” Lyons, age 99, passed away on July 9, 2024, surrounded by her family. She is survived by her daughter Jinny (Gagan) Nealon and her husband, Jack, formerly of Hull and her son Bill Gagan and his wife, Susan; as well as three grandchildren: Jordan, Taylor, and Connor Gagan, all of Bow, N.H. She was predeceased by her parents, John D. and Julia B (Byron) Lyons of Dorchester, and her siblings, Mary A.(Yaya) Collins and her husband, Jerry, of Portland, Oregon; Marguerite (Sissy) Lyons of Dorchester; Julia B (Bebe) Golden and her husband, James (Jimmie), of Hull and Milton; and John D.(Jack) Lyons, Jr. and his wife, Ruth, of Squantum. 

Ms. Lyons attended school at the St. Gregory Parish schools in Dorchester from elementary through high school and the Boston Trade School in Roxbury, where she developed a love for sewing, especially millinery. As a child, she studied the piano and elocution and was involved in many recitals for both. Her winters were spent in Dorchester, where she was an exceptional ice skater. The family spent summers in their beloved Hull, enjoying all the beach had to offer. Ms. Lyons loved rowing her boat in Hull Bay, swimming, playing tennis, participating in Hull Gala Days, and exploring the islands, especially Bumpkin Island. 

After school, Ms. Lyons was a milliner’s apprentice in the historic textile area of Boston. Following that apprenticeship, she was employed by the bridal designer Priscilla of Boston on Newbury Street as a runway model for bridal dresses and the head designer of the bridal veil department. Always up for an adventure, she often told of the glamorous buyers’ trips the Priscilla staff would take to New York City and the lavish restaurants and Broadway shows they would enjoy while in New York. Her favorite show was “The King and I” starring Yul Brynner and Gertrude Lawrence. Ms. Lyons was always fun-loving; whether it was family events for birthdays, weddings, or funerals, whenever the entire extended family was together, it was always a great time.

Following Priscilla, Ms. Lyons married and settled in Dorchester, Hyde Park, and finally, Hull. During that time, she was employed in a variety of jobs, such as salesperson in Remick’s of Quincy, Gates department store in Scituate, Talbots in Hingham, Priscilla’s Bridal Shop in Braintree, and in the Hull school system as a monitor in the lunch room of the Jacobs Elementary School. 

Ms. Lyons loved to dance, sing, knit, sew, make veils for brides and first communicants, garden, read, spend time with her friends and family, and watch “Wheel of Fortune” and “Jeopardy” every night, but her favorite pastime was being in Hull and sitting on her porch on Cadish Avenue watching the sailboats in Hull Bay and counting the airplanes that flew in and out of Logan Airport, wondering where they were going to or coming from. She loved her family and friends and she will be missed.

A memorial Mass will take place at St. Mary of the Assumption Parish on Monday, September 9 at 11:00 a.m., followed by a celebration to be announced at a later date.

Donations can be made in Ginny’s memory to the Friends of the Paragon Carousel, the Alzheimer’s Association, or the Boston Archdiocese Catholic TV.

To leave the Lyons family a condolence message, please visit www.dolanfuneral.com.

Obituary: Ann Joyce Price

Ann Joyce Price, at 78

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Ann Joyce (Park) Price, a beloved wife, mother, grandmother, and friend. Mrs. Price passed away peacefully at her home in Ashland, surrounded by her loving family, on July 27, 2024. She was 78.

Mrs. Price was born on March 15, 1946 in Boston. She was the loyal wife of Richard Lawrence Price and the beloved daughter of the late Louis Park and Mollie (Greenspan) Park. She was also the younger sister of Barry Park. She was the most perfect, nurturing, and supportive mother to her three children: Marc Scott Price, married to Hillary Koritz Price; Lori Beth Price, married to Yoni Kassar; and Stacey Jill Price, partner of Evan Duning. Mrs. Price was a doting “Grammie” to Jared Price, Mila Kassar, Judah Kassar, and Bijoux Price Duning.

Her family meant the world to her, and she expressed her love through cooking, baking, crafting, and gardening. Her home was always filled with the scent of delicious meals or freshly baked goods, and her gardens were always bursting with color and warmth. Her grandchildren were the absolute light of her life, and she cherished every moment spent with each of them. Mrs. Price had a deep love for all the holidays, ensuring every celebration was filled with picture-perfect decorations, warmth for all, and joy. Each holiday was always accompanied by her signature cards without fail.

Mrs. Price had a beautiful, yet simple, passion for life. She found immense pleasure in hunting for and collecting sea glass, a hobby that symbolized her ability to find beauty in the smallest of things. Mrs. Price had a special affinity for the beach, finding peace and happiness watching waves come and go as boats drifted by.

Mrs. Price was fiercely devoted to her friends and family, always there with a helping hand and an encouraging word. Her unwavering support and boundless love will be greatly missed by all who knew her.

Services and burial were held on Monday, July 29 at the chapel at Sharon Memorial Park in Sharon. The celebration of life followed the service at Pinebrook Country Club and continued the following evening at the Cookingham Greene Clubhouse in Ashland.

In lieu of flowers, remembrances in Mrs. Price’s memory may be made to the Dana Farber Cancer Institute. Our Annie J & Grammie will forever be remembered for her kind heart, loving spirit, and the joy she brought into the lives of those around her. She will be deeply missed but never forgotten. May her memory be a blessing. Zichrona l’vracha.

Obituary: Louis A. Rivieccio

Louis A. Rivieccio

Louis A. Rivieccio of Hull died July 17, 2024. He was the son of the late Joseph Rivieccio and Maria Lucille (Teixeira) Rivieccio and the brother of the late Margaret Medeiros, Georgina Jones, Francis Rivieccio, Joseph Rivieccio, Walter Rivieccio, and Anthony Rivieccio. Mr. Rivieccio also is survived by several nieces and nephews.

Mr. Rivieccio worked as a custodian at St. Paul’s School for several years. He enjoyed attending the kids’ basketball games, plays, and concerts. He considered the families he met over the years part of his family.

Mr. Rivieccio enjoyed socializing with his friends at Schooner’s Restaurant. He enjoyed joking with his friends there, especially during New Year’s celebrations.

Mr. Rivieccio’s family would like to thank the staff at Braintree Manor for the care and comfort they gave to Louis while he was in their care.

Relatives and friends are respectfully invited to greet the family during the visiting hours on Friday, July 26, from 4-7 p.m. in the Pyne Keohane Funeral Home, 21 Emerald St., Hingham. Burial will be private. In lieu of flowers, donations in memory of Louie may be made to St. Paul’s Parish, 147 North St., Hingham, MA 02043. Visit www.keohane.com for online condolences.

Obituary: Winifred Carroll

Winifred Carroll, at 77

Winifred (Coffey) Carroll, 77, of Quincy, formerly of Brighton and South Weymouth, passed away peacefully surrounded by loved ones on July 13, 2024 at the Pat Roche Hospice House in Hingham.

Known to most as Fredi, Mrs. Carroll was born in Boston in 1946. She attended St. Columbkille’s School in Brighton from first grade through graduation. She went on to Catherine Labouré School of Nursing, earning a bachelor’s of science in nursing. 

After their wedding in 1971, her husband David’s career in the Drug Enforcement Agency brought them to New York City, where she was an on-site nurse during the construction of the Twin Towers. Upon returning to Boston, Mrs. Carroll accepted a position on the IV team at Boston Children’s Hospital. She had found her calling; working in pediatrics was incredibly rewarding, knowing she was making a difference in the lives of children and their families. 

Born and raised in Brighton, she took great pride in being a Bostonian. She loved the action of the city; theater, art, music, politics, sports, and the convenience of public transportation were woven into the fabric of her being. Every summer, her family would return to their Saltbox cottage on Town Way Extension in Scituate on Peggotty Beach. When the house was washed away in the storm of 1978, a part of her heart went with it. Spending summers in Scituate was a cherished part of her youth. In the mid-1980s, Fredi and David restored a historic house in South Weymouth, where they would raise their children. They took joy in bringing the house and yard back to its original 19th century glory. After the death of her husband in 1999, Mrs. Carroll moved to Hull to be close to the water. She made many friends there and was an active member of the community. 

Mrs. Carroll was a person of many talents and interests. She was a calligrapher, a Reiki Master and lover of music. She and her husband held season tickets to the Boston Symphony Orchestra and supported many local musicians. She was an avid gardener and loved science. Mrs. Carroll was a great cook; Thanksgiving won’t be the same without her cranberry relish. Education was paramount in her life; she valued learning and personal growth all her days. She instilled this love of learning in her children and continued her education after retirement at UMass-Boston. She moved through her life with grace and awareness, and had a wonderful sense of humor. Mrs. Carroll’s incredibly strong spirit aided her as she battled cancer numerous times before finally coming to rest. Her greatest joy, however, was spending time with her grandchildren. Clarkie, Davey, Tommy, Cece, PK, and Leo were the lights of her life. 

Beloved spouse of the late David Carroll, Jr. of South Weymouth. Dedicated mother of David Carroll, III and Shannan of Saratoga, N.Y. and Liz (Carroll) and Peter Gunderson of Hull. Daughter of the late Mary and Frank Coffey. Sibling of the late Fran Coffey and Kit of Cohasset. She also leaves behind many special friends, in-laws, and nieces and nephews.

Mrs. Carroll services and celebration of her life will be held in September. For those who wish, in lieu of flowers, the family is requesting contributions made in Winifred “Fredi” Carroll’s name to the Melodies Center for Childhood Cancer & Blood Disorders at the Bernard & Millie Duker Children’s Hospital, c/o Albany Medical Center Foundation, 43 New Scotland Ave., MC-119, Albany, NY 12208, or by visiting https://engage.amc.edu/

Arrangements are under the compassionate care of Hamel-Lydon Chapel, Quincy. For information and online condolences, visit www.HamelLydon.com

Obituary: Philip P. Bryan, Jr.

Philip P. Bryan, Jr. at 89

 Philip P. Bryan Jr, 89, died peacefully on July 12, 2024, at Greystone Farms in Salem, N.H.

Mr. Bryan was born on November 7, 1934 in Boston to the late Philip and Helen (Benway) Bryan. He was married 67 years to his beloved wife, Elizabeth M. (Koch) Bryan, who predeceased him. He grew up and was educated in West Roxbury, where he graduated from Boston Trade School for Boys. He was a resident of Salem, N.H., for the past 13 months, although he spent most of his life in Hull and enjoyed many retirement years in Largo, Florida.

Mr. Bryan retired from Boston Edison, where he worked for many years as a dispatcher. He is most proud of his service in the U.S. Marine Corps, living out the pledge of faithfulness, loyalty, and commitment – “semper fidelis.” He enjoyed all sports but especially baseball (and the Red Sox), golfing, bowling, and boating. He taught his children many things, like riding a bike, ice skating, how to care for your vehicle, water skiing, how to fish and clean them. Phil was a trumpet player, an animal lover, and loved music, especially singing and dancing with Liz.

Besides his parents and his wife, Mr. Bryan was predeceased by his sister, Joan Kelley.

Mr. Bryan’s legacy is his children, Katherine and her husband, George Fredette, of Salem, N.H.; Lisa Bryan and her life partner, Allen Lefleur, of Hull; Donna and her husband, Lou Barinelli, of Tewksbury; Patricia and her husband, Peter Aldrich, of Narragansett, R.I.; Philip J. and his wife, Wendy Bryan, of Dedham; Michael and his wife, Sandy Bryan, of Tewksbury. He was grandpa to his 15 grandchildren and four great-grandchildren.

Friends and relatives are invited to a celebration of life on Sunday, July 21, with visitation from 12 p.m. to 2 p.m., followed by a funeral service at 2 p.m., at the Carrier Family Funeral Home, 38 Range Rd, Windham, N.H. Burial will be at a private ceremony at the Gardens of Gethsemane Cemetery in Boston.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Semper K9 or another veterans organization of your choice. For directions or to send a message of condolence to the family, visit www.carrierfuneralhome.com.

Obituary: Henry Finneran

Henry Finneran, at 82

Henry “Buddy” Finneran, 82, of Rockland, formerly of Hull and Pembroke, died peacefully in his sleep after a short illness on Saturday, July 6, 2024, at the Pat Roche Hospice Home in Hingham. 

Mr. Finneran was born in Boston on March 26, 1942, to Henry and Dorothy (Little) Finneran, and was the beloved husband of to Virginia (Spencer) for 62 years. Ginny and Buddy were childhood friends who surprised their families when they eloped in their late teens. Although legally married, another wedding in the Catholic Church took place at the insistence of their parents. The story of the elopement remains one of the many favorite stories told through the years.

Mr. Finneran spent his career at Sunbeam Bread and worked there for over 26 years. After retiring, Buddy and Ginny operated the Atlantic Hill Market in Hull.

Mr. Finneran loved his family, the beach, and all things sports. He enjoyed telling stories and would repeat his favorite tales, always getting a laugh and a smile.

Mr. Finneran leaves behind his siblings, June St Croix of Hingham, Joseph Finneran of Quincy, Robert Finneran of Hull, and Michael (Laraine) Finneran of Hingham. He also leaves a dear cousin, Bobby Stabins of Hull. He is survived by many nieces, nephews, grandnieces, and grandnephews.

Mr. Finneran was predeceased by sisters Janet Bennett and Dorothy Smith and brothers George Finneran and Jackie Finneran.
Following cremation, Mr. Finneran will be interred privately, and services will follow at a later date.

In Buddy’s memory, donations can be made to the Pat Roche Home, c/o NVNA and Hospice Charitable Fund, 120 Longwater Drive Norwell, MA 02061 or at www.nvna.org/charitable-fund.

For more information and online guestbook, visit www.downingchapel.com.

Obituary: Jeanne F. Donovan

Jeanne F. Donovan, at 70

Jeanne F. Donovan, 70, died on July 3, 2024 after a brief illness, with family by her side.

Ms. Donovan was born and raised in Dorchester, the second oldest of eight children. She dedicated her life to serving others as a waitress, spending the last few decades as a familiar face at Schooner’s restaurant in Hull. Ms. Donovan found joy in spending time at the beach, gardening, and cooking for her family. She had a special talent for making sure no one ever left a party hungry, always serving second and third helpings, even if you didn’t want them.

A devoted aunt, Ms. Donovan’s life was enriched by her many nieces and nephews. She loved spending time with them and telling her famous stories.

Ms. Donovan leaves behind her siblings: Joan Donovan, Nancy Donovan Quinn, Eileen Donovan, and Gerard and his wife, Kim Donovan, all of Hull, and Dan Donovan of Pasadena, California.

Ms. Donovan was predeceased by her parents, Eileen and Gerard Donovan, and her siblings Kathy Donovan and Paul Donovan.

A service to celebrate Ms. Donovan’s life will be held at a later date.