Marie C. Needham

Marie C. (Noonan) Needham, 84, of Worcester, died peacefully Thursday evening, May 12, 2011 in Knollwood Nursing Center, West Boylston, MA. Her husband of thirty years, William Needham, died in 2007. She was also predeceased by her sister, Phyllis (Noonan) Rogan. She is survived by her sister, Frances (Noonan) Murphy of Danvers, MA and a stepson, Mark Needham of Worcester. Mary was born in Worcester on December 12, 1926; she was a daughter of the late James and Theresa (Belton) Noonan. She graduated form South High School in Worcester and Forsyth Dental Institute in Boston. She was a dental hygienist for many years in Worcester. She continued her education at Assumption College and Clark University and later received her degree in education. She set up and taught the dental assistant program at Girls Trade High School for many years until her retirement in 1991. Marie also had a special interest in fine jewelry and travel. Her few hours a week part time in Sharfmans after retirement was a special treat to her. Sincere thanks are given to the nurses and staff at Knollwood Nursing Center for their loving care to her. Friends and relatives are invited to visit with the family Tuesday, May 17th from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m, in MERCADANTE FUNERAL HOME & CHAPEL, 370 Plantation Street. Marie's funeral will be celebrated Wednesday, May 18th from the funeral home with a Mass at 10:00 a.m. in Notre Dame duLac, 555 Plantation Street, Worcester. Burial will follow in St. John's Cemetery. Those who wish to remember Marie by a way of a memorial tribute are kindly asked to consider the Knollwood Nursing Center, 87 Briarwood Circle, West Boylston, MA, 01583 or to the Alzheimer's Association, 311 Arsenal Street Watertown, MA 02472