Miles Funeral Home

10/10/2025

Kathleen R. Richardson

JEFFERSON – Kathleen R. (Cote) Richardson, 74, beloved wife of Joel W. Richardson, passed away peacefully at Holden Rehabilitation & Skilled Nursing Center on Wednesday, September 24, 2025. Born and raised in Worcester, she was the daughter of the late Edward and Lucy (Ushinski) Cote.

Kathy was a graduate of St. Peter’s High School. She went on to further her education at the Worcester City Hospital School of Nursing where she received her nursing degree and worked as a pediatric ICU nurse at UMass Memorial Medical Center for over 30 years. While her work was oftentimes emotionally demanding, her compassion and strength guided her through the most difficult days.

She moved to Holden in 1974 where her favorite place was Eagle Lake. She spent a lot of time there with her children when they were young and with all her many golden retrievers. Outside of work, Kathy found her greatest joy in caring for her own family and beloved dogs. Balancing her demanding career with motherhood, she poured the same dedication and gentleness into her home-life as she did her patients. In her spare time, she loved art, painting, music and was always up to seeing any movie in the theater. Kathy always found pleasure in watching and listening to Joel play his guitar.

Her family was her heart, and her presence brought comfort and calm to all who knew her.

She will be lovingly missed and remembered by her husband of 51 years, Joel; two daughters, Alyssa and her husband, Adam and Jessalyn along with her cherished granddaughter, Malia “lili”; and Kathy’s sister and best friend, Debbie of Worcester.

“You may say I’m a dreamer….” John Lennon

Kathy’s family would like to thank the staff at JHC Hospice and Oriol Health Care for their kind and compassionate care.

In keeping with Kathy’s wishes, there are no services. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to “Friends of Eagle Lake”. Arrangements are under the care of Miles Funeral Home, 1158 Main Street, Holden. www.milesfuneralhome.com

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10/10/2025

Joan Lomax

OAKHAM - Joan A. Lomax, 78, of Oakham, passed away unexpectedly on October 8, 2025. She is the loving wife of the late Robert R. Lomax with whom she shared over 58 years of marriage.

Joan was born in Worcester, the daughter of the late Carl and Mary (Goodwin) McAfee. After high school, she attended the Salter School to obtain her certificate and worked as a secretary for FW Madigan for over 20 years.

Affectionately known as "Nanny" to her grandchildren, Joan was a loving woman who adored her family and spent as much time with them as possible. In their earlier years, she and Robert enjoyed traveling, always on a cruise or a trip to Florida. When their children were younger, they loved camping and boating and Joan could often be found playing a game of Solitaire. They frequently vacationed at York Beach, Maine where they owned a home and could make endless memories with their family. She will be lovingly remembered for her silly nature, good humor, and steady stream of Amazon packages.

Joan leaves behind her three children, Robert Lomax Jr and his wife Suzanne of Oakham, Christine Mardirosian and her husband Glenn of Oakham, and Jodi Stevens and her husband Darrin of West Boylston; her 7 grandchildren; 3 great grandchildren, with one on the way; her siblings, Paul McAfee, William McAfee, Donna Record, and Diane Bloom.

She is predeceased by her husband Robert, and siblings, David McAfee and Karen Medeiros.

Family and friends are kindly invited to a graveside service on Saturday, October 25th at 11:00 AM in South Cemetery, 1158 North Brookfield Rd, Oakham.

Arrangements are under the care of Miles Funeral Home in Holden. www.milesfuneralhome.com

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10/07/2025

Barbara Jean "BJ" Monopoli

SALISBURY - Barbara Jean “BJ” Monopoli passed away peacefully at the age of 82. The daughter of Sebastiano and Fortunata Fagone, she was born, raised, and resided in Massachusetts throughout her life.

A dedicated registered nurse, BJ built a long and impactful career in trauma and orthopedic care. She took great pride in mentoring and training younger generations of nurses. Beyond healthcare, she was also a small business owner who operated The Connection Restaurant in Sturbridge, where her warmth and energy made everyone feel at home.

BJ loved animals, Coca-Cola, and cheering for her beloved Red Sox. A proud Italian American, her heart was happiest at Salisbury Beach, a place filled with family memories and sunshine.

She will be deeply missed by her daughter Marlene, son Jack, and five grandchildren, Luke, Gina, Mia, Marissa, and Marcella. BJ was predeceased by her brothers, JJ and Agripino, and her daughter, Windy. She will be remembered always as a wonderful Mum, Nonny, sister, and friend.

Services will be private and are in the care of Miles Funeral Home of Holden.

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10/07/2025

David Wheeler

BOYLSTON - David H. Wheeler, 82 of Boylston, passed peacefully on October 1, 2025. He was born to Clifford and Helen Wheeler of Worcester. He was a quiet, soft spoken, likeable guy with a quick wit and smile. He was a loving and devoted husband, father, and grandfather.

He is survived by his wife, Arlene, of 63 years come this November. Also his daughter Twila Wheeler and granddaughter Krista Hamilton; his son Todd Wheeler; and his sister Donna Euwart. He is predeceased by three older brothers, Clifford, Richard, and William.

After high school, Dave joined the Army Reserves. He went to college and earned a degree in business management. Dave was a Plant Manager for NED Corporation for 35 years. He owned and managed properties in Worcester for about 40 years. His hobby was restoring and renovating his antique colonial home. He loved traveling and socializing with family and friends.

He was a lifetime member of the Greendale People's Church where he served on the Board of Trustees for many years. He also served on the Council of Aging in Boylston for 50 years. He was a member of the Boylston American Legion Post.

Family and friends are invited to attend a memorial service on Monday, October 13th at 4:00 PM at the Greendale People's Church, 25 Francis Street in Worcester.

In lieu of flowers, please make donations to the charity of your choice.

Arrangements are under the care of Miles Funeral Home, 1158 Main Street, Holden. To leave a message for the family please visit www.milesfuneralhome.com

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10/03/2025

Elizabeth A. Heath

WORCESTER – Elizabeth A. Heath, age 40, passed away at home surrounded by love on Sunday, September 28, 2025 after a courageous battle with cancer.

Born in Worcester and raised in Holden, Elizabeth graduated from Wachusett Regional High School, class of 2003, where she was very involved in the music department. She was a member of the Chamber Choir, participated in the annual singing of Handles’ Messiah, and was part of multiple Madrigal Dinner performances. She was also a founding member of the high school handbell choir, The Mountaintinabuleers. She went on to obtain a Bachelor’s degree in Sociology and earned her Master’s in Creative Writing from Southern New Hampshire University.

Growing up she was a member of the former St. John’s Episcopal Church in Worcester, where she sang in the choir, played handbells, and was involved with the youth group. She spent many summers as both a camper and a counselor at the former Bement Camp and Conference Center in Charlton and held a special place in her heart for the spirit of both the place and the people she encountered there.

As a member of the Poets’ Asylum she found herself, fell in love with writing and bloomed as a poet. She was also a part of the Shakti writer’s group, and the Rabbit Heart Poetry Film Festival. She was passionate about her writing and performed her slam poetry both in Worcester, and around the country. She attended many local and national competitions where she would not only compete but would show unwavering support for her friends and fellow poets.

She was a passionate, determined, independent thinker. A talented singer, musician, and writer. She loved with her whole self, and her family and friends were everything to her.

She is survived by her partners, Hershel Walters and Daniel Whitehead of Worcester; her parents, Jeffery and Karen (Haynes) Heath of Gorham, ME; her grandmother, Beverly Heath of Worcester; her sister, Courtney (Heath) Ovitt and her husband, JR along with her nephew Everett Frost of Westbrook, ME; and her nieces, Phoebe and Melody Whitehead of New Bedford, MA.

Relatives and friends are invited to visit with her family from 9:30 am to 11:00 am on Friday, October 17th, at All Saints Church, 10 Irving St., Worcester. A Memorial Service honoring her life will follow at 11:00 am. Burial will be private. If you feel so moved, please wear blue in honor of Elizabeth’s favorite color. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made in her memory to the American Cancer Society online here: https://www.cancer.org/donate.html

To share a memory or offer condolences, please visit her guestbook.

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09/29/2025

Marie Ann Allen

STERLING - Marie Ann Allen, 79, passed away on September 22, 2025.

Marie was born in Leominster, the daughter of the late Richard and Elvie (Steikari) Bilodeau. For most of her life, she lived in Sterling and worked as a primary caregiver for her mother. She met and married her late husband Richard "Dick" Allen and became his primary caregiver until his death in 2013. She enjoyed home cooked meals and her beloved cat Shadow.

Marie leaves behind her siblings, Caroline Gamblin of Sterling, Norman Bilodeau and his wife Barbara of Clinton, Robert Bilodeau and his wife Linda of Leominster, Deborah Gonyea of Fitchburg, and David Bilodeau of Gardner.

She is predeceased by her husband Richard Allen, and brother Dennis Bilodeau.

There will be no services at this time. Handling arrangements is Miles-Sterling Funeral & Tribute Center. www.milesfuneralhome.com

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09/27/2025

Richard A. Wagner

BOYLSTON, MA/DAYTONA BEACH, FL - Richard A. Wagner, 88 passed away on Monday, November 18, 2024, at his home in Daytona Beach, Florida surrounded by his 3 beloved children, Lisa Wagner of Charlton, MA, Stephan Wagner of Daytona Beach, FL, and Kimberly Wagner of Fall River, MA. He is also survived by his brother Ronald Wagner of Boylston, MA, and his many nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his brother Ralph Wagner, Jr. of Boylston, MA, and his parents Ralph Wagner, Sr. and Adeline (Wisner) Wagner, both of Holden, MA.

Born and raised in Holden, Richard graduated from Holden High School. He was a proud veteran who served his country in the Korean War. Dick resided with his family in Boylston, where he worked in the auto sales industry most of his life alongside his brother. In early retirement, Dick loved being the owner and operator of his hot dog truck, "Wag's Dogs." He always provided a smile and kind words to all that he served. He was a food truck pioneer.

He was a deeply devoted father to his children, who were his biggest joy. Those who knew him would also say he was as a man of honor and integrity, always up for an adventure and was a loyal friend. He was always fun to be around with his humor and smile. Some of his favorite pastimes included daily crossword puzzles and building model airplanes. He loved the ocean and some of his favorite spots were the Cape Cod Canal and Daytona Beach.

Richard will be lovingly remembered and honored at a graveside service on Sunday, October 5, 2025 at 1 p.m. at Pine Grove Cemetery in Boylston. The Rev. Zachary Stephenson will officiate. To share a memory or offer a condolence, please visit the guestbook on this page.

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09/26/2025

Steven Louis Charlip

MILLIS - Steven Louis Charlip, 66, passed away on Friday, September 12, 2025 after battling a lengthy illness.

Remembered for his intellect and generosity of spirit, Steve lived a life rooted in integrity, humor, and devotion to family and community. Steve was a proud graduate of the University of Virginia, where he earned both his undergraduate and law degrees. He dedicated his career to serving his community as a respected real estate attorney.

Steve was also deeply involved in civic life, serving as a former Weston Town Selectman. Outside of work, he was an avid traveler and a talented photographer, capturing moments and places that reflected his love of beauty and curiosity about the world.

Above all, Steve was a devoted husband, father, and grandfather. He is survived by his wife, Stephanie, his children Allie (Harry) Weber, Annie (Gregory) Nugent, and Jeffrey (Amanda) Charlip, and his four grandchildren: Charlie, Emma, Katherine and Jack. He also leaves behind his siblings David, Michael and Judy. Steve was predeceased by his loving parents, Herbert and Naomi Charlip. He will be remembered by countless friends who cherished his loyalty, witty humor, and unwavering sense of justice.

In honor of Steve’s life and legacy, the family asks that donations be made to the American Diabetes Association in his memory. Funeral Services were private and in the care of Miles Funeral Home of Holden.

Steve’s life was full of laughter, love, and purpose. He will be deeply missed and forever remembered.

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09/26/2025

Christine Hunt

RUTLAND - Christine A. Hunt, 65, passed away on Saturday, September 20, 2025, surrounded by her loving family at UMass Medical Center in Worcester. Christine had family constantly by her side to support her through tests and treatments during the weeks she remained in the hospital, after experiencing a sudden hemorrhagic stroke in late August. In her final days, Christine received Last Rites from a priest and had many loved ones visit to hold her hand and say goodbyes. Christine was an organ donor, sharing one last gift to help others live.

Born on August 12, 1960, Christine grew up in Rutland, a daughter of William W. and Elaine M. (Barre) Suchocki. Christine's life was filled with laughter, love for her family, and a passion for sunny beaches lined with palm trees. In the 1990s while raising her young children, Emily and Matthew, Christine moved from Massachusetts to the tiny island of Kwajalein in the Marshall Islands. Her creativity and thoughtfulness as a mother shone through in countless ways, creating treasured childhood memories that her family hold dear (including saving french fry wrappers from stops in Hawaii to recreate McDonald's meals for her children at home on Kwaj). She loved walking on the beach with her children and friends, collecting seashells which she treasured and always kept on display at home.

While living in Rutland, Christine shared her enduring love for sandy tropical beaches and sunshine with her partner Bernie. Together they took winter vacations to Aruba, an annual trip she looked forward to all year and delighted in sharing pictures and talking about to everyone she knew. She and Bernie also spent many hours together in their home garden, caring for and harvesting the many tomatoes, beans, peppers, squash, and other vegetables that Christine grew from seed every year.

Known for her big smile, genuine hugs, kindness, humor, and sarcasm, Christine was a teacher, mentor, mother figure, and friend to many. For over 20 years "Miss Christine" taught countless local children to swim, as a talented and beloved swim instructor in the Worcester area. Later she worked as a staff member at Paxton Center School, where she cherished her time with the students, teachers, and staff.

She will be lovingly missed and remembered by her two children whom she deeply loved, Emily (Hunt) Oakes and her husband Jesse of Bloomington, Indiana, and Matthew Hunt and his wife Shannon (McFarland) of Holden; her beloved granddaughters, Elaine Oakes and Nora Christine Hunt, whom she delighted in seeing on video calls and visiting whenever possible; her fiancé, Bernard Demers of Rutland; her siblings, Mary-Joy O'Malley and her husband, David of Rutland, Daniel W. Suchocki and his wife, Lila of Rutland, and Denis G. Suchocki and his wife, Christina of Rutland; and many nieces and nephews who loved her dearly. She was predeceased by her parents, William W. and Elaine M. (Barre) Suchocki, and her sisters, Joanne M. Suchocki and Ann-Marie Stukowski.

The family would like to thank the medical staff at UMass Medical Center ICU for their compassionate care during Christine's final days.

Relatives and friends are invited to gather with Christine's family on Thursday, October 2nd from 4:00 PM - 7:00 PM at Miles Funeral Home, 1158 Main Street, Holden. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Friday, October 3rd at 11:00 AM at St. Patrick's Church, 258 Main Street, Rutland. Burial will be held privately.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to St. Patrick's Church, Rutland, or to a charity supporting children's swimming programs in Christine's memory.

To leave an online condolence, please visit www.milesfuneralhome.com.

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09/25/2025

Donald O. Maloney

SHREWSBURY — Donald O. Maloney, 97, of Shrewsbury, died peacefully on September 23, 2025, surrounded by all his children and other family.

Born on July 31, 1928, his life’s path was determined by the death of his mother just four hours after his birth. He was raised in Shrewsbury by his aunt, Mary F., and her husband, Henry A. Marchesseault, along with their son Paul, who was like a brother to Don. After attending Shrewsbury grammar schools and St. Peter’s High School, Don enlisted in the U.S. Navy and served as a ship’s bursar aboard the USS Yellowstone in the Mediterranean. Following his service, he attended the College of the Holy Cross, graduating in 1952.

He met the love of his life, June Johnson, at a drum corps dance in Shrewsbury when he was 16 years old, and they married years later on July 1, 1950 in Saint Anne's Church. Together June and Don raised and educated ten children. Catholic faith was a constant source of nourishment all their lives. Together they made sacrifices so that each child could be given a faith-based education.

Don furthered his interest in accounting at the College of the Holy Cross. After graduating, he began his career with the public accounting firm of John J. O’Connor and Son. He passed the exam to become a Certified Public Accountant and was a long-standing member of the AICPA and Massachusetts Society of CPAs. In 1962, through dedication and leadership, Don became a partner, and the firm was renamed O’Connor, Maloney & Company. Don was deeply committed to his profession and spent more than 70 years helping and advising clients, colleagues, and friends. His legacy is one of integrity, generosity, and an unwavering dedication to the people he served throughout his long and distinguished career.

Don also gave back generously to the community. He strongly supported Saint Mary’s Church and School, volunteered with the Diocese of Worcester’s Adopt-A-Student program, served as Grand Knight with the Knights of Columbus, was a board member of Saint Vincent’s Hospital and the Boys and Girls Club of Worcester, served on the Shrewsbury Water and Sewer Commission and actively participated in many other nonprofit organizations. He was a member of the Parents Council and a variety of committees at Saint John’s High School and was named an honorary graduate of the school.

Outside of work and service, family was his greatest joy. Don loved music, spending time on Lake Quinsigamond, playing golf, and was a longtime member of Worcester Country Club. He was a proud supporter of Holy Cross including their football and basketball programs.

He is survived by his brother James A. Maloney (Mary Elizabeth) of Worcester; children Donald O. Maloney, Jr. (Mary) of Holden, Robert V. Maloney (Joyce) of Sterling, Michael J. Maloney (Judith) of Hillsborough, NC, Susan D. Maloney of Shrewsbury, Joan E. Maloney-Kelleher (Daniel) of Jefferson, Carol J. Maloney Nelson (David) of Ashfield, Patricia E. Maloney Nelson (William) of Paxton, and John P. Maloney of Littleton; 22 grandchildren; 24 great-grandchildren; many nieces and nephews; and his dear friend Janet Conlon.

Don is reunited in heaven with his beloved wife of 65 years, June R. (Johnson) Maloney; daughters Marie R. Johnson and Nancy A. Maloney-Thomas; grandsons Matthew C. Maloney and Leonel F. Maloney; granddaughter Sarah E. Maloney; his brothers John F., Robert E., Paul J. Maloney and Paul J. Marchesseault; sister Mary H. Engdahl; and parents John P. and Mary L. (O’Neill) Maloney.

The family extends deep gratitude to Dr. Nancy Skehan, nurse Denise and caregivers Emelia and Regina. We would also like to thank the staff of Southgate Retirement Community and VNA Hospice for their compassionate care.

Calling hours will be held Tuesday, September 30th, from 3:00 to 7:00 p.m. at Miles Funeral Home, 1158 Main Street, Holden. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated Wednesday, October 1st, at 11:00 a.m. at Saint Mary’s Church, 640 Main Street, Shrewsbury. The family respectfully requests that those attending the Funeral Mass will proceed directly to the church. Burial will follow at Mountain View Cemetery, Shrewsbury.

Memorial donations may be made to the Donald and June Maloney Family Scholarship Fund at Saint John’s High School, 378 Main St., Shrewsbury, MA 01545; Saint Mary’s School, 16 Summer St., Shrewsbury, MA 01545; or to a charity of your choice.

To share a memory or offer condolences, please visit his guestbook.

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09/24/2025

Deborah A. Bruegger

WORCESTER - Deborah A. Bruegger, 73 of Worcester, passed away peacefully on September 23, 2025.

She was the beloved mother of Nicholas Bruegger of Worcester and Daniel Bruegger and his wife, Arielle of Westminster. She was a proud grandmother to Sawyer, Barrett, Carter, and Crew. She is also survived by her former husband and devoted friend, Ronald Bruegger of Florida.

Deborah was the daughter of the late Henry J. and Pauline C. Arsenault of Millbury. She leaves her sister, Sandra J. Perrault of New Braintree, and her brother, Joseph H. Arsenault and his wife Christine of Sterling. She also leaves behind her beloved nieces and nephews: Kelly Weeks, Kimberly Harrington, Keith Harrington Jr., Ryan Arsenault, and devoted partner, Jon King; Natalie Arsenault and future husband, Timmy Weagle; and Ben Strang and his wife, Erikka Strang.

Deborah lived in Worcester, Millbury, and North Hollywood, California. While in California, she enjoyed surfing and horseback riding. She was a proud graduate of Quinsigamond Community College with a degree in Radiologic Technology. She worked in technical sales for Vari-X Corporation before dedicating many years to the cardiac catheterization labs at both UMass and St. Vincent Hospital.

Known for her warm hospitality, Deborah loved cooking and baking for family and friends. She especially cherished celebrating Easter, Christmas, and Halloween traditions, which she carried on with joy and creativity. Her love, generosity, and kindness will be dearly missed by all who knew her.

Relatives and friends are invited to gather with the family from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. on Tuesday, October 7, 2025, in the Miles Funeral Home, 1158 Main Street, Holden. A memorial service will follow at 12 p.m. in the funeral home. Burial will follow at All Faith’s Cemetery, 9 Island Road, Worcester. www.milesfuneralhome.com

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09/24/2025

Stop by and see Amber and Pam at the Barre Senior Center's Information Fair .we are here until 1:00 p.m