Mack Family Funeral Homes

01/10/2026

John L Leamy

With a heart full of love and a spirit as vibrant as his favorite melodies, John Leamy danced his way into the hearts of those who knew him. Born in Fitchburg, Massachusetts, on March 20, 1958, John spent his life in Billerica, infusing every moment with his unique blend of generosity, humor, love, and thoughtfulness. John, who loved nothing more than a song that stirred the soul and a cup of coffee that warmed the heart, was a beacon of joy and laughter to his family and friends.

John's enduring love for his family was the sweetest melody in the symphony of his life. His unwavering devotion to his siblings, Michael (Chrissy) Leamy, Nancy (Lester) Wilson, and Diane Sullivan, was a testament to his affectionate and caring nature. He was a cherished uncle to Ryan Wilson, Korey Wilson, Collin Leamy, and Aiden Leamy. John was predeceased by his loving parents, John and Lucille Leamy. As the Irish proverb says, "A good friend is like a four-leaf clover; hard to find and lucky to have." John was indeed that four-leaf clover in the lives of those fortunate enough to know him.

We invite you to join us in celebrating John's life at Stone-Ladeau Funeral Home, 343 Central Street, Winchendon, MA. Calling hours will be held on Thursday, January 15, 2026, from 10:00 - 11:00 am. The funeral service will commence at 11:00 am. Burial will follow at St Bernard's Cemetery, 96 Goodrich Street, Fitchburg, Massachusetts, at 12:30 pm.

We encourage everyone who knew John to share their memories and upload photos to his memorial page. Your stories and pictures will serve as a comforting reminder of the joy, love, and laughter that John brought into our lives. Let us celebrate John's life together, remembering the enduring melody that he played in our hearts.

View John L Leamy's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

01/10/2026

Sheila T Fiffy

Sheila T Fiffy, born on October 9, 1945, in Troy, NY, passed away peacefully on January 7, 2026. For most of her life, Sheila resided in Leominster before moving to Athol, Massachusetts, in 2006. A loving wife, mother, grandmother, aunt, and friend, Sheila was a woman of boundless love and generosity. Throughout her life, she dedicated herself to her family, who were her greatest joy and accomplishment.

Sheila is survived by her loving husband, George Fiffy; her son, George Fiffy II; her daughter, Jennifer Lemoine and her husband, Damien Turner; her cherished granddaughters, Kiley LeBlanc and Melania Lemoine, and many other loved family and friends. She was preceded in death by her father, Harold JR, her mother, Theresa Quinn, and her sister, Maureen Cormier. Sheila's hobbies included knitting, playing games on her tablet, and watching her favorite shows, but it was the time spent with her family, especially her granddaughters Kiley and Melania, that she treasured most. Her memory will be cherished by all who knew her, and she will be greatly missed.

A graveside service for Sheila will be held on Monday, January 12, 2026, at 11:00 AM at the Massachusetts Veterans Memorial Cemetery, located at 111 Glenallen Street, Winchendon, Massachusetts, 01475. A reception will follow the service at the Snowbound Club at 130 Baldwinville Road in Winchendon. Mack Family Funeral Homes, Athol-Orange Chapel, 110 New Athol Road, Orange, MA, is handling the arrangements. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Ahimsa Haven Animal Rescue in Winchendon, MA.

We encourage all who knew and loved Sheila to leave memories and upload photos to her memorial page. Her story is not only told through her life but also through the lives she touched. Let us celebrate Sheila’s life by sharing our cherished memories of her.

View Sheila T Fiffy's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

01/10/2026

Merle Weber

Merle (Amadon) Weber, 97 of Gardner, died January 6, 2026, at the Gardner Rehabilitation & Nursing Center, Gardner. She was born in Gardner on September 12, 1928, the daughter of the late Wesley M. Amadon and the late Martha I. (Leschner) Amadon.

Merle's early career included roles as a house cleaner, movie theater employee, and hair salon washer, before moving to Boston to work as a food server at a Howard Johnson’s restaurant. She was then hired by her future husband to be a black-and-white photographic print composer and developer. Mid-life, Merle successfully co-founded a business with her sister, Betty, leveraging her creative skills to sell unique, one-of-a-kind t-shirts and sweatshirts at flea markets. She was an avid and adventurous traveler, taking numerous trips to European countries with her sister Ginger, and driving across the U.S. three times in an R.V. with her sister Betty.

Merle cherished the time spent with her grandson, David, especially picking him up from elementary school every Wednesday for an afternoon of board and card games. She was also a loving caretaker for her granddogs when the family was out of town.

Merle frequently met her sisters to play Scrabble, and continued to play the card game Quiddler with her family until the end of her life.

She leaves her daughter, Sara Weber, and Sara’s husband, Dan Ottenheimer, a grandson, David Ottenheimer, a sister, Betty A. O'Brien, and one brother, John L. Amadon of Pennsylvania. She is predeceased by her husband Oscar Weber, and by three brothers, Richard G. Amadon, who died in the Korean War, Wesley M. Amadon Jr., Philip H. Amadon, and by one sister, Virginia M. Conti.

There will be a calling hour for Merle on Saturday, January 17, 2026, from 10:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m., with a funeral service at 11:00 a.m. at Mack Funeral Home, 105 Central Street, Gardner, MA 01440. Her burial will be private.

View Merle Weber's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

01/09/2026

Jeffrey A. DePaolo

Jeffrey A. DePaolo, our loving and loyal beacon of laughter, affectionately known as Jeffrey, was born on the 31st of March, 1954, in Framingham, Massachusetts. He took his final bow on December 6, 2025. A witty soul, Jeffrey had a knack for turning ordinary moments into unforgettable memories. As Mark Twain once said, "The human race has one really effective weapon, and that is laughter." Jeffrey wielded this weapon with grace and charm, making everyone around him laugh and leaving a trail of joy wherever he went.

Jeffrey was a man of many interests, with family and vehicles holding a special place in his heart. As a Supervisor in the electronics industry, he was known for his dedication and commitment. After retirement, Jeffrey found immense joy in his hobbies. He was a motorbike enthusiast, often seen taking long, leisurely rides, the wind playing with his hair. He also loved cooking and was known for his exceptional culinary skills. His passion for vehicles went beyond just motorcycles; he was always on the lookout for great vehicles, turning this interest into a delightful pursuit. He was a proud member of The Unknown Truckers and contributed significantly to Hudson Youth Soccer. Jeffrey's love for life was infectious, making him a beloved figure in Fitchburg, Massachusetts, his place of residence, and in Milford and Hudson, Massachusetts, where he had previously lived.

Survived by his devoted wife, Margaret DePaolo, and their four beloved children, Derek, Jesse, Anthony, Cassandra, seven grandchildren and two great grandchildren, Jeffrey's departure leaves a void that cannot be filled. He is also remembered by his late parents, Robert and Lucille DePaolo, who undoubtedly welcomed him with open arms into eternity. Jeffrey's laughter, love, and loyalty bridged countless distances, bringing people closer together and creating an everlasting bond.

Let's remember him not with sorrow, but with the joy and laughter he spread throughout his life. We encourage everyone to share your favorite memories and upload photos of Jeffrey to the memorial page, so we can all remember the laughter, love, and joy that he brought into our lives.

To celebrate the life of this extraordinary man, we invite you to share your funniest memories and photos of Jeffrey on his memorial page.

Brandon Funeral Home, 305 Wanoosnoc Road, Fitchburg, MA.

View Jeffrey A. DePaolo's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

01/08/2026

Steven A. Creamer

We gather to celebrate and remember the vibrant life of Steven Creamer, affectionately known to many as Wally Bear, Dad, Pops, and most importantly, Groda to his grandchildren. Born June 2, 1953, in Waltham, MA, Steven was a beacon of compassion, love, humility, and loyalty. He filled the world with a boundless and intoxicating joy that touched the lives of everyone he encountered.

Steven was a dedicated public servant, having served as a police officer with the Leominster Police Department for 30 years. His commitment to the community extended beyond his role as a police officer. Steven was the first School Resource Officer in Leominster, and he brought the Junior Police Academy to the city of which he was immensely proud of. He organized Summer Pig Roasts for some lower income areas and spent countless hours in the kitchen and the community room of Pilgrim Congregational Church helping prepare and serve breakfast to Leominster‘s homeless and less privileged residents. Steven’s devotion to his community was only surpassed by his love for his family. His home was always open especially for a meal or place to rest your head, and many remember the comforting presence of Steven at Many school events of which he was dedicated to making sure he attended each one at least one time.

An avid lover of life, Steven was known for his family cookouts at the lake, smoking ci**rs, silly jokes, dark humor and riding motorcycles. He was always the biggest cheerleader for his children whether it was motorcycle races , ice skating or baseball, he cherished any moment he could spend with them and his grandchildren, friends, and family. Steven also had a deep love for reggae music, Jamaican culture, and was known for making ridiculous bets with his youngest brother. He was a constant source of strength and humility, even in the face of adversity, and lived his life with an unwavering faith. Steven held a very close relationship with God, regularly prayed, and when he was physically able, attended the Life Church of Fitchburg, MA.

Steven is survived by his loving wife, Wendy (Masciangioli) Creamer, his son, John MacDonald (Miranda) and his daughters, Johanna Creamer, Katherine Creamer (Omar) Santiago and Audrey (Dylan) Maclean He is also survived by his grandchildren, Michael Aaron, Bentley Aaron, Olivia Rose, Jamison Raymond and Ellis Bethany, his brothers and sisters, David (Denise) Creamer, Karen (Barney - deceased) Landis, Laurie (Tom) Johnson, along with numerous in-laws, nieces, nephews, and grandchildren. Steven was preceded in death by his parents, Edward and Catherine Creamer, his son Aaron Creamer, his youngest brother John (Janice - deceased) Creamer, and his brother-in-law (Barney - deceased).

As it says in the Bible, Matthew 5:16, "In the same way, let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven,” Steven's light was a beacon of hope in our community, and his legacy of love, perseverance, compassion, and service will continue to inspire all who knew him.

It is safe to say that most of us have never met another man as strong, resilient and courageous with such an unrelenting will to live, as Steven Creamer. There are not enough words to express how much he will be missed by all who knew him..

The family invites you to share your memories and upload photos of Steven to his memorial page. Brandon Funeral Home, 305 Wanoosnoc Road, Fitchburg, MA, is assisting the family with arrangements.

Calling hours will be held Saturday January 10, 2026 from 11 am - 3 pm. A funeral service will be held at 3 pm in the funeral home. Burial will be private.

Following the wake there will be a celebration of life from 4 pm - 8 pm at the Eastwood club in Fitchburg. All are welcome, please feel free to bring a memory or favorite story that you’d like to share. We look forward to celebrating his memory with all of his favorite people.

View Steven A. Creamer's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

01/08/2026

Virginia E Thayer

Virginia E. Thayer (99), born 27th of December 1926, died peacefully at home on the 8th of January 2026. Beloved wife, mother, grandmother, and great grandmother, “Ginny” was an avid member of the Athol Women’s Club, Athol Congregational Church, and volunteered many hours throughout the Athol area at various functions.

She was predeceased by the love of her life, her husband Major Alan B Thayer whom she was married to for almost 40yrs. After marriage, she assumed the role of dutiful military house wife where she accompanied her husband across the United States, residing in Massachusetts, Oklahoma, New York, Georgia, Maine, Virginia, and Alaska.

Through all the years of motherhood and then grand motherhood she was a staple in every event and milestone, becoming Girl Scout leader for her daughters and later her granddaughters, volunteering at school functions, and sewing dance outfits for her granddaughters’ recitals.

“Ginny” was predeceased by her parents, Abner (John) and Evelyn Floran of Athol, MA, her sisters Ellen DeRibas and Rosanne Gilchrist both of Florida. She is survived by her daughters, Cynthia Thayer of Gardner and Susan Thayer of Athol whom she made her home with for 35yrs., her granddaughters, Jacquelyn Corser and Sarah Thayer both of Athol, her grandson, Kyle Reid of New York City, NY, and her great grandchildren, Amberlyn (Jon) Grasso of CT, and Connor Paas of Athol. She also leaves her beloved great-granddogs Brenna and Jameson who will sincerely miss the leftover snacks she would sneak to them.

The family would like to express their appreciation to the nurses of Care Central VNA & Hospice of Gardner for their profound support and care.

A private burial will be held at the convenience of the family.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to the organization of your choice in Ginny’s name.

View Virginia E Thayer's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

01/08/2026

Calling hours are a dedicated time for friends and family to gather, share memories, and offer their condolences. It’s a chance for us to provide the space you need, with the compassion and care you deserve.

We’re here for you, every step of the way. 🫂

01/07/2026

Brian K. Walker

Brian K. Walker, affectionately known as B or Papa to his loved ones, was born on February 6, 1964, at Fort Dix, New Jersey, and spent his life being a beacon of love and joy to all who knew him. He took his last breath on January 1, 2026, leaving a legacy of laughter, love, and empathy, qualities that were the very essence of his being. A loyal friend and a loving family man, Brian's life was a testament to the power of love, compassion, and human connection.

Brian was a man of many passions. He loved hosting family get-togethers, barbecuing, fishing, camping, and playing golf. His love for his dog, Gunner, was a sight to behold. However, what mattered most to Brian was being with family and loved ones, especially feeding them. On family holidays, he would always sit back and watch everyone enjoy themselves while he smiled looking on, a sight that will be dearly missed.

Brian regularly attended Saint John’s Episcopal Church in Athol. Brian was a man who cherished his faith, and it was evident in the love and kindness he extended to everyone around him.

He is survived by his loving family, which includes his wife and partner of 23 years, Carol Walker, daughters Jessica Walker, and Heather and Tonya Blundon, brother Robert Walker and his wife Kathy, sister Cheryl Chandler and her husband Rob, granddaughter Kylah Blundon, nephew Brad Crow, nieces Kourtney Walker and Meghan Keller, and great nephew Jameson Keller.

We invite all who knew and loved Brian to leave their memories and upload photos to his memorial page below. Let us remember Brian not just for the life he lived, but also for the lives he touched with his empathy, humor, love, and loyalty.

A celebration of life for family and friends will be held in the summer.

Mack Family Funeral Homes, Athol-Orange Chapel, 110 New Athol Road, Orange, MA.

View Brian K. Walker's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

01/06/2026

Thomas A. Moore

We are sad to announce that Thomas A. Moore passed away on January 4, 2026, at the Green Mountain Nursing Center in Colchester, VT, with his son Alan and daughter-in-law, Heidi, at his bedside.

Thomas was born in Gardner, MA, on May 22, 1932, to the late Kenneth and Cecelia (Borey) Moore. He was raised in East Templeton and attended Templeton schools. At 17 years old, Tommy left Templeton High School and enlisted in the U.S. Army, where he became a member of an elite unit that existed for only 6 years (1946-1952) in U.S. history. The U.S. Constabulary acted as an occupation and security force in post war, devastated Germany. With it's moto of Mobility, Vigilance, and Justice, the Germans referred to them as " Blitz- Polizei" or "Lightning Police". Fellow American units referred to them as the Circle C- Cowboys for their distinctive circle-c lightning bolt patch, along with a spit and polish image. Upon returning home, Tom married Sally Reinikainen on June 13, 1953, at the West Street Lutheran Church and shared almost 70 years of a beautiful marriage.

In 1955, Tom enlisted in the U.S. Air Force reserve and was recalled to active duty during the Cuban Missile Crisis, where he trained with both the 82nd and 101st Airborne, practicing Air drops. In April of 1963, Tommy was seriously injured when the C-119 on which he was a crewmember crashed upon landing at Barnes Air base and he was ejected onto the runway at 90 mph. Tom recovered and continued to fly with the Air Reserve throughout the Vietnam era on C-141's, retiring in 1975 from the Air Reserve.

Tom worked at Lily Chemical Company both in Gardner and Templeton, retiring in 1993 after 32 years with the memory of many good friendships. Upon their retirement, Tom and Sally travelled extensively throughout the U.S. but never missed an important event in their grandchildren's lives. Tommy had some regrets about leaving school early, but never regretted his military service. He always encouraged the importance of education for his son and grandchildren.

Tom was a member of the Sergeants Association and the U.S. Constabulary Association, of which he attended reunions across the country. He was also a proud member of VFW Post 905 and served with their Honor Guard for many years. He was a congruent at the Chestnut Street United Methodist Church.

Tom was predeceased by his wife, Sally, and brother Richard Hazard. Tom is survived by a sister, Eleanor L'Ecuyer of Florida, a son, Alan, and wife Heidi of Essex Junction, VT. Three grandchildren, Korinne Berenson (Dan) of Needham, MA, Joshua Moore (Katie) of Jericho, VT, and Callie Amato(Jeff) of Williston, VT. Tom also leaves 6 great grandchildren, Eliza and Noah Berenson, Payton Moore, Stella, Gabby, and Lennon Amato, along with several nieces and nephews.

Tom lived a long and eventful life, and he is now with Sally, the love of his life.

Funeral services will be held on Wednesday, January 14, 2026, at 11 am in the Mack Family Funeral Home, Gardner Chapel, 105 Central St., Gardner. Burial will follow in Wildwood Cemetery, Gardner.

A calling hour will be held on Wednesday, January 14, 2026, from 10-11 am in the funeral home.

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests memorial donations be made in his memory to the Gardner VFW Post 905, 22 Elm St., Gardner, MA 01440.

To send an online condolence, please visit www.mackfamilyfh.com.

Mack Family Funeral Home, Gardner Chapel, 105 Central St., Gardner, is directing arrangements.

View Thomas A. Moore's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

01/06/2026

Davine E. Talbot

Davine Estella Talbot, a spirited woman whose love for life was as vibrant as her personality, passed on December 22, 2025.

Born on November 15, 1948, in Royalston, Davine was the daughter of Arthur and Davine (Brewer) Talbot and was a beloved person, known for her warm smile and infectious laughter that could brighten up even the gloomiest of days. Her presence was a beacon of joy, making her an unforgettable figure to all who had the privilege of knowing her.

Davine was a lover of puzzles and outdoor activities, her spirited nature reflected in her adventurous hobbies. Her love for the outdoors was only matched by her love for her family and friends. She held a special place in her heart for her residence, Open Sky - Baldwinville Road, Templeton, where she created countless memories.

Davine is survived by her loving siblings, Rosella Talbot of Baldwinville, Sandra Donaghue and Keith of Orange, Arthur Talbot of Orange, Ralph Talbot of Athol and wife Rosemarie, Steven Talbot of Athol and wife Norma; along with nieces, nephews and great nieces and great nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Arthur and Davine Talbot, by her brothers, Melvin Talbot and Merton Talbot.

Davine will be remembered for her loving nature, her inspiring strength, and her spirited approach to life. Her memory will continue to live on in the hearts of those who loved her.

We invite friends, family, and those whose lives Davine touched to share memories and upload photos of her on the memorial page below. Each memory shared will help to keep her spirit alive and honor her remarkable life.

The services will be private.

Mack Family Funeral Homes, Athol-Orange Chapel, 110 New Athol Road, Orange is assisting with arrangements.

View Davine E. Talbot's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

01/05/2026

Michael A. Publicover, Jr.

It is with a heavy heart that we announce the untimely passing of the adventurous and compassionate Michael "MJ" Publicover Jr. on December 26, 2025. Born on September 18, 2006, in Worcester, MA, MJ was a vibrant and energetic spirit who brought joy and laughter to everyone around him. He was a beacon of positivity, always ready with a funny anecdote or a helping hand. His compassionate nature and infectious humor were as much a part of him as his love for family and friends.

MJ attended the Orange School District, he attended Mahar Regional Middle/High School and later transferred to the Quabbin Regional School District where he attended Quabbin Regional High School.

He was an avid athlete, playing Baseball, Basketball, Soccer and his true passion, Football. He got his start with football at an early age of 5 and played 9 years of youth football and played until Highschool. MJ was a natural born Quarterback, he could read the field at a level far beyond his age, often making him a lead scorer on his team, where he perfected his bootleg play.

Between school and sports, MJ made so many friends that he grew with, many of which he was still very close with. He made friends everywhere he went, he was a very extroverted person, who always talked, laughed, you name it, with everyone he met.

MJ worked with his father as a Carpenter and had recently started working at Trellis Structures in Templeton, MA.

MJ was a cherished son to his parents, Michael and Cheri Publicover, and a beloved brother to Jordan Publicover, and his beloved cat Pennywise. His absence will leave an unfillable void in the hearts of his family, friends, and everyone who had the privilege of knowing him. Michael "MJ" lived a life full of love, laughter, and memories that will forever be etched in our hearts.

Calling hours will be held on Sunday, January 11, 2026, from 2:00-5:00 PM at the Mack Family Funeral Homes, Athol-Orange Chapel, located at 110 New Athol Rd., Orange, Massachusetts, 01364, followed immediately with a celebration of life held at the Ellinwood Country Club at 1928 Pleasant St., Athol, MA from 5:00-8:00PM.

This is an opportunity to pay our respects, share stories, and remember the wonderful life of Michael "MJ" Publicover Jr.

We invite those who knew MJ to leave memories and upload photos to the memorial page below. It serves as a testament to his life and the indelible mark he left on all our hearts. Through this, we keep his legacy alive and cherish the moments we had with him.

Mack Family Funeral Homes, Athol-Orange Chapel, 110 New Athol Road, Orange, MA.

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01/04/2026

John A. Cutter

John A. Cutter, of Willimantic, Connecticut, formerly of Athol and Fitchburg, Massachusetts, passed away peacefully at Backus Hospital in Norwich, Connecticut, surrounded by family.

John was the beloved husband of Debra Cutter and a devoted father to Tricia Perry and Nicholas DiPace. He was a proud and loving grandfather to Joshua Perry, Annabella Perry, Izabella Perry, Mila Perry, and Skye Marshall, who brought him immense joy. He is also survived by his son-in-law, Ryan Perry, daughter-in-law, Alexandria Marshall, his brother, James Cutter, and his sister, Karen Corcoran.

John was predeceased by his parents, Donald and Margaret Cutter.

For many years, John worked as a newspaper advertising salesman, where he was known for his dedication, reliability, and friendly demeanor. He took pride in building relationships and valued the connections he made throughout his career.

John had a deep love for animals and nature, finding peace in the outdoors and comfort in the presence of animals. He appreciated the simple things — quiet moments, fresh air, and time spent with family. His steady presence, gentle spirit, and love for those around him will be fondly remembered and deeply missed.

Born and raised in Athol, Massachusetts, John later lived in Fitchburg, Massachusetts, before making his home in Willimantic, Connecticut, where he lived with his wife, Debra.

A funeral service will be held on Friday, January 30, 2026, at 11 am in the Mack Family Funeral Home, 110 New Athol Road, Orange, MA. A visitation will be held before the service from 10:30- 11 am in the funeral home.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made to an animal shelter of your choice.

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