Mary E. (O'Donnell) Clifford

WORCESTER – Mary E. (O’Donnell) Clifford, 87, of Worcester, died Friday, June 8, 2018 at Rose Monahan Hospice.

Her husband of 48 years, Bernard D. Clifford, Sr, died in 2009.  She leaves a son, Dr. Bernard D. Clifford, Jr. and his wife Robin of Wilbraham, four daughters, Suzanne Gicas and her former husband Stephen of Worcester, Mary Ellen Clifford and Callie Clifford and her partner Edward Wilk of Worcester and Amy Kelly of Dennis and her boyfriend James Okerberg; twelve grandchildren, Megan, Ryan, and Dylan Clifford; Alexandra and Christian Gicas; Kira Murphy, Michael Clifford, Jr. and Brittany Lapomardo; Brendan, Shannon and Samantha Kelly, Caitlin Clifford-LaPorte. She also leaves four great-grandchildren, P.J. and Emma Murphy and Marion and Edward Lapomardo; many nieces, nephews, and cousins.  Mary also leaves her lifelong pal Eleanor Looney of Paxton.  She is predeceased by her son Michael in 2013 and a brother, Edward “Ted” O’Donnell.  She was born in Palmer, MA, daughter of Edward and Ellen M. (Sugrue) O’Donnell.  She graduated from Framingham State Teacher’s College.

Mary was an elementary school teacher for many years. Before becoming a mother, she was active at St Andrews Church for many years, both in the Women’s Guild and as a CCD teacher. Mary enjoyed baking, sewing and gardening. All of these skills she passed on to her children.

­The funeral will be held Wednesday, June 13 from RICE FUNERAL HOME, 300 Park Ave, Worcester, with a Mass at 10:00 am at St. Andrew The Apostle Church, 5 Spaulding St.  Burial will be in St. John's Cemetery. Calling hours are Tuesday, June 12 from 4 to 7 pm at the funeral home. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to the Mercy Centre, 25 W. Chester St., Worcester, MA 01605 or MCOFU (Massachusetts Corrections Officers Federated Union) 159 S. Main St, Milford, MA 01757.