Marie L. (Finnerty) Boardway

HOLYOKE

Marie L. (Finnerty) Boardway, age 82, of Holyoke, passed away at her home on Thursday, July 2, 2020 in the comfort of her family. She was born in Holyoke, a daughter of the late William and Helen “Mildred” (Reidy) Finnerty and graduated from Holyoke High School in 1955 and Westfield State College in 1959. Marie was a dedicated teacher in the Holyoke Public School System for forty-three years, retiring in 1999. She was an avid golfer and reader, and was a master quilter. Marie was the organizer of all family functions, and was happiest when she was hosting large groups of family and friends. A wonderful cook, she was famous for her potato salad. Marie was a very religious person, and a faithful communicant at Blessed Sacrament Parish. In later years she enjoyed being a “Hockey Gram” attending as many of her grandson’s games as possible. She is survived by her beloved husband of sixty years, Robert F. Boardway; a son, TJ Boardway of South Hadley; two daughters: Paula Akalis and husband Steve of Holyoke, and Katie Bilek and husband Brian of Brighton MI; six adored grandchildren: Carley, Caelah, and Dylan Akalis, Shane, Colin and Liam Bilek; a great grandson, Eoghan Preterotti; a brother, Edward Finnerty and wife Judy of Mount Juliet TN; two sisters: Carol Laferriere and Joyce Smalley, both of Holyoke, and many nieces and nephews. Marie was predeceased by a son, Samuel Boardway, on December 25, 2019. Relatives and friends are invited to attend a Mass of Christian Burial for Marie on Wednesday, July 8th at 10:00 a.m. in Blessed Sacrament Church, 1945 Northampton Street, Holyoke. Burial will be private. Calling hours will be held Tuesday July 7th from 3:30 to 6:30 p.m. at the Barry J. Farrell Funeral Home, 2049 Northampton Street. Masks and Social Distancing required. Friends will be required to pay their respects then exit funeral home immediately. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Jericho. PO Box 1039, Holyoke MA 01041-1039 or to Holyoke VNA/Hospice Life Care, 575 Beech Street, Holyoke MA 01040.

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