Obituary: Mary M. (Gillis) DeMers

(From Charles F. Oteri & Son Franklin Funeral Home)

Mary M. (Gillis) DeMers, 79, of Wrentham, died peacefully, surrounded by her family, Wednesday, Feb. 20, 2013. She was the wife of the late Thomas F. DeMers who died in 2003.

Born Nov. 24, 1933 in Boston, the daughter of the late Daniel and Margaret (MacDonald) Gillis and devoted sister (“Sis”) to the late Alexander, Murdock, Bernard, Roger, Donald and Billy. Mary was previously employed by State Street Bank in Boston.

She raised her five children in Norfolk, Thomas of Colorado, James of Wrentham, Mary Hartley of Plainville, William of Rhode Island and Katherine Palmer of Wrentham, and resided in Wrentham for the past seven years. Her greatest joy was her nine grandchildren, Megan, Christopher, Krista, Sean, Danielle, Ryan, Tommy, Michael and Brett. She loved holding babies and her arms were seldom empty as her family grew.

Mary always listened to people and put the needs of others before her own and had a real passion for serving her community. This translated into years of volunteer service, including children’s, women’s and prison ministries. A woman of strong faith, she believed in the power and strength of Jesus Christ’s love and the beauty and peace that would await her after her passing.

She will always be loved and remembered for her beauty, sweetness and grace. You would not have realized she only had five children, because her fostering and compassion knew no boundaries.

Relatives and friends are invited to attend her funeral service Monday Feb. 25, at 10 a.m. in the Victory Assembly of God Church, 67 High Plain St. Sharon, 02067. Burial will follow at Knollwood Memorial Park in Canton.

Calling hours are respectfully omitted.

Flowers are accepted, or donations in her memory may be sent to the above named church.

Arrangements are under the care and direction of the Charles F. Oteri & Son Franklin Funeral Home, 33 Cottage St. Franklin, www.oterifuneralhome.com.