Witty's Funeral Home

06/21/2026

June 21, 2026

In Loving Memory of Kelly Murphy Jenks(Laford)
February 11, 1975 – May 28, 2026

With love, we remember Kelly Murphy Jenks, whose creativity, humor, honesty, love, and unforgettable presence left a lasting impact on everyone who knew her.

Kelly saw the world through an artist’s eyes. She had a remarkable talent for painting and drawing and found inspiration in nature’s quiet wonders.. the colors of a sunset, blooming flowers, the sound of wind through the trees, riverside walks, and the beauty woven into everyday life. She was often behind the camera capturing moments outdoors that others might pass by.

Her love of art was not only expressed through what she created, but through the way she lived.. with imagination, curiosity, depth, and an open heart.

Kelly was not someone who tried to fit into being endlessly polished or positive. She was a big personality. She spoke her mind, was outspoken and straight to the point, swore often, laughed loudly, and had a sense of humor people won’t forget. Her laugh was contagious and filled a room.

She cared deeply for people. Through her work supporting individuals with disabilities, she built meaningful relationships and gave genuine care to the people whose lives she became part of.

Above all else, Kelly deeply loved her family and cared fiercely for the people she loved. Her children and grandchildren held an especially treasured place in her heart, and she would have done anything for them. Her love was protective, unwavering, and shown in both big and small ways. At family gatherings she was often the one playing with the kids, being silly, making people laugh, and creating moments that became lasting memories.

Kelly had a unique gift for seeing beauty in people and places that others might overlook. She was a truly beautiful, deep, and fiery soul who leaves behind memories filled with laughter, creativity, love, and connection.

Kelly will be deeply missed and forever remembered with love. Though she is no longer physically with us, her spirit remains.. in her artwork, in photographs of sunsets and flowers, in the stories that make us laugh, and in the people whose lives she touched.

And when the wind moves through the trees, when the sun warms your face, or when a sunset makes you stop for a moment, may you think of Kelly and remember the beauty she found in the world. May she rest peacefully.

She is survived by her children, Autumn, Isaac, and Eva; her beloved grandchildren, Myles and Giannis; her parents, Patricia and Tim; her siblings, Murray, Michael, and Samantha; her nieces and nephews, Milo, Aubree, and Hudson; the father of her daughter Autumn, Neil, who remained a close friend throughout the years; and many extended family members and loved ones.

A celebration of Kelly’s life will be held on August 1st, 2026.

To help keep the gathering personal and comfortable for close family and friends, we will not be publicly posting the time or location. If you knew and loved Kelly and would like to attend, please reach out to a family member directly for details.

06/17/2026

June 17, 2026

Robert W. Carey Sr.

SHUTESBURY- Robert W. “Bob” Carey Sr., 85, of Lakeview Road, died early Wednesday morning, June 17, 2026 at the University of Massachusetts Medical Center Campus in Worcester after a courageous battle with cancer.
Born in Leverett on May 29, 1941, he was the son of William and Evelyn (Groves) Carey and graduated from New Salem Academy.
On July 9, 1960, Bob married Sylvia (Pratt) and they enjoyed 66 years of marriage and raising their family.
Bob was a construction supervisor for C. D. Davenport in Greenfield for a number of years before retiring. He had previously worked for Puffer in Amherst and Mackin in Greenfield.
Bob was a sports enthusiast, having coached softball for many years and enjoying the Boston Celtics, New England Patriots and especially the Boston Red Sox. He was also a member of the Shutesbury Athletic Club and had run the club for 25 years.
Bob enjoyed NASCAR, traveling to Daytona and Delaware.
A true family man, Bob loved all of them dearly and especially enjoyed the Sunday dinners. He was dedicated to caring for his lawn and yard, enjoyed going out to eat, as well as enjoying a cold Bud with a cigar either at home or Stan’s Club in Turners Falls.
Bob is survived by his loving wife, Sylvia Carey of Shutesbury; sons, Robert Carey Jr. and his fiancé Emily Young of Shutebury and David Carey Sr. of Greenfield; grandchildren, Jeffrey Haughey of Belchertown, Ashley Stone of Greenfield, Justin Carey (Emma Biggs) of Brighton, Julia Carey (Dean Blanchard) of Leverett, Jameson Carey of Nashville and David Carey Jr. of Georgia; great grandchildren Austin Haughey, Jacob Haughey, Josie Haughey and the two he especially took pride and joy in, Owen Stafford and Lincoln Stafford.
Bob also leaves behind a brother, Ricky Carey of Leverett; sisters, Karen Fairman of Orange, Jean Sweeney of Lake Pleasant, and Kathy Boron (David) of Leverett; a brother in law, Bernal Coffin of Athol; and many nephews, nieces, grandnephews, grandnieces and cousins.
Besides his parents, Bob was predeceased by a sister, Joan Burnett, sister in law Shirley Coffin, as well as brothers in law Leon Pratt and Jimmy Pratt.
Calling hours will be held on Monday, June 22, 2026 from 10 a.m. until 12 noon at Witty’s Funeral Home, 158 South Main Street, Orange, followed by a procession to Plainview Cemetery in North Leverett for a graveside service at 12:45 p.m.
Witty’s Funeral Home, 158 South Main Street, Orange, is assisting the family.

06/17/2026

June 17, 2026

Wayne D. Duda

ORANGE- Wayne Dominick Duda, 75, of Orange, Massachusetts, died Monday morning, June 15, 2026, at his home following a period of declining health.
Wayne was born on April 14, 1951, in Brattleboro, Vermont, the son of Dominick P. Duda and Marilyn Ruth (Whitney) Duda. He was raised in the Greenfield area and attended Greenfield schools.
A talented and hardworking craftsman, Wayne spent much of his life working in the building trades. He was a skilled carpenter whose expertise ranged from rough framing to fine finish work. Throughout his career, he was also known as a dependable handyman and maintenance professional. He dedicated many years of service to Greenfield Acres Senior Living, where his skills, reliability, and willingness to help others were greatly appreciated.
Wayne enjoyed the outdoors and especially loved fishing. He spent many happy hours on the waters of the Quabbin Reservoir and Lake Mattawa and enjoyed shore fishing on Cape Cod. Gardening was another favorite pastime, and he took pride in cultivating and caring for his gardens.
In his younger years, Wayne was one of the original members of the Brotherhood of the Spirit, a communal living group that began in a treehouse in a blueberry field in Leyden, Massachusetts. The experience reflected his adventurous spirit and his appreciation for community and friendship.
Wayne was predeceased by his father, Dominick P. Duda, who died on April 13, 2009; his mother, Marilyn Ruth (Whitney) Duda, who died on April 4, 2023; his sister, Shirley J. (Duda) Arms, who died on November 20, 2004; his brother, Daniel P. Duda, who died on February 16, 2017; and his second wife, Susan Seam, who died on June 19, 2023.
He leaves his sister, Dorothy A. Frye and her husband, David, of Orange; his sons, Joshua Duda and his wife, Jennifer, of Sunapee, New Hampshire, and Cory Duda and his wife, Amy, of Wilder, Vermont; his stepdaughters, Tina Bridges and her partner, John Woronecki, of Granby, Connecticut and Crystal Gilsinger and her husband, Michael, of Springfield; his grandchildren, Sage Duda of Sunapee, New Hampshire, Celeste Duda of San Diego, California, Cedar Duda of Kalamazoo, Michigan, and Lillian Duda of Topsham, Vermont; his step-grandchildren, Ryan Emond of Orange, Kyle Vieira of Ashfield, Stephanie Gilsinger of Springfield, and Joshua Ouellette of Manchester, Connecticut; as well as many nieces, nephews, a grandniece, and grandnephews who affectionately knew him as “Uncle Dude.”
The family extends heartfelt gratitude to Catholic Charities for their care and support, and to Earl Johnson, Shannon Crosby, Jeff Mosher and Linda Mosher for their friendship, kindness, and assistance. Their compassion and generosity will always be remembered and appreciated. In addition, his sister, Dorothy, sincerely thanks the Town of Orange first responders for their compassion, care, and skilled response during a difficult time.
In lieu of flowers, the family asks that you honor Wayne’s memory by making a monetary donation to the Orange Food Bank, 81 East River Street, Orange, MA 01364.
Funeral services and burial arrangements will be announced at a later date.
Witty’s Funeral Home, 158 South Main Street, Orange, is assisting the family.

06/16/2026

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06/11/2026

June 11, 2026

Jane I. Parmenter

ATHOL- Jane I. (Patria) Parmenter, 79, of Harrison Street, died unexpectedly at home on Wednesday, June 3, 2026 after being stricken ill.
Born in Winchendon on April 29, 1947, she was the daughter of Reginald E. and LaDonna M. (Beyes) Patria.
Jane had been married to Robert Parmenter.
Jane loved spending time with her grandchildren and cooking home cooked meals. She also had a love for horses and animals in general, as well as knitting.
Survivors include a son, Jesse; grandchildren, Brandon, Tristan, Tyler, Taylor, Naomi and Laura.
Besides her parents, Jane was predeceased by a son, Gino, and a daughter, Wanita.
There are no calling hours or services at this time.
Witty’s Funeral Home, 158 South Main Street, Orange, is assisting the family.

06/09/2026

June 9, 2026

Patricia L. Babbitt

ORANGE- I, Patricia Leah Greenlaw Babbitt, write this, in life, not after I’m gone. I began in this life, as a foster child and with my sister, was raised in a wonderful home in Montague, Mass. by a wonderful foster mother “Gertie Mum Billings”. I was too young to remember electricity and running water just an old copper pump and the cleanest outhouse in town!
I attended the Montague Elementary School until it burned and finished grade school in Millers Falls (at the Highland School). I was a member of the grade school and high school band as a baton twirler and played basketball, graduating from Greenfield High School, Class of 1954.
Through the years, I was a Cub-Scout, Brownie leader, Sunday school teacher, sang in church choirs. I became a member, as a child, of the Montague Congregational Church, moving on to South Athol Methodist and lastly, North New Salem Congregational.
I’ve had many work-jobs, through the years, from a waitress, department store clerk, welder, assembler, nurse’s aide, activity assistant and director and most important a wife, mother of six children, grandmother of ten and great grandmother of eight!
I served and sang for years for the Athol Y.M.C.A, with my “bestest friend” ever, Frances “Prissy” Down of Boston.
I’ve lived in Alaska for the U.S. Air Force and also Keesler AFB in Biloxi, Mississippi, Tacoma, Washington, and also Ft. Dix in New Jersey.
I was married to the love of my life, Paul T. Babbitt, and we enjoyed many years together until his passing in 2014.
Pat was one of 5 siblings, her brothers Ronald Greenlaw, Jim Greenlaw, and Neil Greenlaw, and her sister Elizabeth Greenlaw Desautels all predeceased her but she leaves behind her children, Barry Turcer of California whom she is also predeceased by, Sharron Sibley of Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, Sheryl Woodford of Plymouth who she is also predeceased by, and John Turcer Jr. the 2nd of Florida, Paula Walker of Orange and Tricia Smith and her husband Andrew of Baldwinville. She also leaves behind her grandchildren: Kristin Simoa of TN and her sister Karri Tibon of CA, Brad Green Jr, Jen Woodford of Lowell, Mike Woodford of Plymouth, Bobbie Turcer and John Turcer Jr. the 3rd of Florida, Ashley Walker of Orange and Jesse Walker of Phillipston and Leah Smith Ma and her husband Colin of Andover. Pat had many great grandchildren and great, great grandchildren. She also leaves behind her Nieces Norma Desautels of ME and her niece Diane Simmons of CA. Please don’t grieve for me, as I’ve waited for this reunion with my “Lord”, for a long time.
I will miss you all, especially my beautiful sister in Arizona, and brother Jim in Kentucky, and all my dear, dear friends I’ve made through the years, especially Carol Van Lanen of Wisconsin of 58 years.
I pray I will see you all on the other side of the mountain. With love, Patricia Leah Greenlaw Babbitt.
There are no calling hours.
A celebration of Pat’s life will be held on June 20, 2026 at 1 p.m. at the Bethany Baptist Church, 72 Ryan Street, Gardner, with Pastor Ruben Cabrera officiating. Refreshments will follow.
Interment will be private at the Massachusetts Veterans Memorial Cemetery in Winchendon with her beloved husband Paul.
In lieu of flowers, please make online gifts in her memory of Patricia L. Babbitt to the Dementia Society of America: www.DementiaSociety.org/donate
Thanks to the staff on the Dana Unit at Quabbin Valley Healthcare in Athol for the tireless and wonderful care of Patricia and to Compassus Hospice for the attentive way she was cared for, my family thanks and appreciates all of you who made her comfortable in her last days.
Witty’s Funeral Home, 158 South Main Street, Orange, is assisting the family.

06/06/2026

Posting for a friend:

PEPPERELL/ORANGE- Debbie Jean (Bailey) Nutter of Pepperell, MA went home to her Lord and Savior on June 5, 2026 after courageously defying the odds through a four year battle with Glioblastoma.

Debbie came into this world on January 23, 1958 in Athol, MA. She was the second of four daughters born to Kenneth and Shirley Bailey.

Debbie graduated from Ralph C. Mahar Regional High School in 1976 and married her high school sweetheart Roland P. Nutter Jr. that same May. In 2001, they moved to Pepperell, MA where they continued as active members of their church and civic communities. Through 50 years of marriage, they had three children, countless travels, and many friendships along the way.

Debbie was a vibrant and energetic soul, always quick with a joke and warm smile. She loved a hot, sunny day at the beach, antiquing for her next treasure and crafting of all kinds of creations. Her creative spirit is one of her greatest legacies.

Debbie spent most of her professional career working as the Tax Collector for the towns of Orange and Harvard, MA. She retired as the Treasurer/Collector for the Town of Pepperell in August of 2021.

She leaves behind her sisters: Bonnie Cogswell of Prosperity, SC, Monica Ellison of Conway, NH, and Marilyn Rios of Sandown, NH; her husband Roland Nutter of Pepperell, MA; and their children, Matthew Nutter of Pepperell, MA, Gabriel Nutter and his wife Allivia of Leominster, MA, and Magdalene (Nutter) Cheney and her husband Ben of Andover, MA; as well as five grandchildren. Debbie's greatest blessings called her "Grammy"

Visitation on June 10, 2026 at McGaffigan Family Funeral Home,37 Main Street, Pepperell, 5:00 - 8:00 pm

Funeral service June, 11, 2026 at Pepperell Christian Fellowship,17 Main Street, Pepperell. Starts at 11:00 am.

Interment will follow in Woodlawn Cemetery, 40 Heald Street, Pepperell.

06/03/2026

June 3, 2026

Paula A. Barnes

WENDELL- Paula Anne Barnes a long-time resident of Wendell Massachusetts passed away peacefully on May 24, 2026 at the age of 59. She was born on April 14,1967 in Clarkesville, Tennessee.
Paula was the beloved daughter of Donna Elliott of Wendell and Ralph Barnes of Tennessee.
She grew up living in Wendell most of her life. Eventually making a home with her life long
Partner, William Fisher (Billy) where they raised their 3 sons. Paula was known by family and
friends for her loving, caring, generous, selfless spirit and the love she shared for her family and
friends. She dedicated herself to her grandchildren. Throughout her life she found great joy in
spending time with family, going on vacations and enjoying the beach. Her presence will be
deeply missed by all who had the pleasure of knowing her.
Paula is survived by her loving spouse William Fisher (Billy), her children the twins William, Paul and youngest son Tyler Fisher. Daughter in-laws Stephanie Dubay and Cortney Weaver, her
cherished grandchildren Jace 15, Jaylah 14, Aubrianna 11 and Aubrey 11, her siblings Thom
and wife Kim Barnes, Christine and husband Richard Blume, her brother and sister in-laws Matt
and wife Cindy Fisher, Dina and husband Kevin LaMagdelaine.
Paula is preceded by loving and caring step-father Jack Elliott. She also leaves behind many
aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, cousins, dear friends and neighbors within the
Wendell community.
A celebration of Paula’s life will be held at a later date. We will keep you updated on Social
Media.
Witty’s Funeral Home, 158 South Main Street, Orange, is assisting the family.

06/02/2026

June 2, 2026

Sheila A. Johnson

ATHOL- Sheila Ann Johnson 85 of South Athol has been called home to the Lord on May 30, 2026
Sheila is the daughter of the late Robert L. and Joyce G.M.(Newcomb) Bray. She was born and raised in Granby, Massachusetts. Sheila graduated from South Hadley High School in 1958. Later, receiving her degree in Early Childhood Education. She was employed with MOC with her first position as a bus driver then as a lead teacher in the Head Start program. Sheila served 28 years before retiring in 1986.
When Sheila was young, she was active in the Brownies, Girl Scouts, Canning Club, Sewing Club and the 4H. Sheila Joined the Civil Air Patrol at 18 years old. Enjoyed Hiking with her children, always gardening, fishing and joining her husband Doug at the Steam Engine Shows. Sheila very much enjoyed being with her 29 Grandchildren and 24 Great Grandchildren.
Sheila is survived by her Children: Albert Bixby Jr., Sandra Bixby (Paul Gaudette), Pamela Bixby (Robert Thomas), Aaron (Marcella) Bixby, Heidi (Dain) Handy and Darlene (Louis) Bushay. Her late husband’s children, Julie, Angela and Doug Jr.; Also, her siblings Joyce, Diane, Jonathan and Jeffery (Gail) as well as many Nieces and Nephews.
Along with her parents, Sheila was also predeceased by her husband Douglas A. Johnson in 1992, her brother’s Robert, James and Richard, and the late Albert Bixby and their daughter Susan Bixby, stepdaughter Rebecca; and Sheila’s best friend Allen Doubleday.
There are no calling hours.
A funeral will be held on Friday, June 5, 2026 at 10 a.m. at Witty’s Funeral Home, 158 South Main Street, Orange.
Interment will follow in South Cemetery, Orange.
Witty’s Funeral Home, 158 South Main Street, Orange, is assisting the family.

05/29/2026

May 29, 2026

Mary C. Greco

ORANGE- Mary C. “Connie” (Coleman) Greco, 92, formerly of South Main Street, died peacefully surrounded by family on Wednesday afternoon, May 27, 2026 in her apartment at Tatnuck Park assisted living facility in Worcester.
Born in Boston on August 17, 1933, she was the daughter of the late Arthur L. and Mary C. (Burke) Coleman.
On September 17, 1955, Connie married Anthony J. “Tony” Greco in St. Augustine’s Church in Andover and enjoyed 64 years together until his death on December 20, 2019. Connie was a woman of deep faith, quiet humility, and gentle kindness who devoted her life to her family and those she loved. She found great joy in preparing meals, baking for family gatherings, and creating a warm and welcoming home. Her hands were a true blessing, and through these simple acts of love she expressed her devotion to family, faith, and tradition throughout her life.
Survivors include her children, Annemarie Barber of New Salem, Mark Greco and his partner Abbie Stevenson of Gloucester, Robert Greco, and his wife Jennifer, of Ipswich and Margaret Bousquet, and her husband Gary, of Spencer; grandchildren, Allison Wyatt and her husband Ben, Mallory (Barber) Boudreau and her husband Kyle, Bradley Bousquet and his wife Hannah, Nicholas Bousquet, Mia Greco, Michael Greco, and Will Greco; great grandchildren, Jacob Wyatt, Nate Wyatt, Lucas Wyatt, Amelia Boudreau and George Bousquet; a daughter in law, Pam Arsenault; and many nephews and nieces.
Besides her parents and husband, Connie was predeceased by a son, John Greco, and a son in law Mike Barber.
A calling hour will be held on Wednesday, June 3, 2026 from 11:30 a.m.-12:15 p.m. at Witty’s Funeral Home, 158 South Main Street, Orange.
A Mass of Christian Burial will be at St. Mary’s Church, 19 Congress Street, Orange, at 12:30 p.m.
Interment will follow the Mass at 2 p.m. at the Massachusetts Veterans Memorial Cemetery, 111 Glenallen Street, Winchendon.
In lieu of flowers, donations are suggested to St. Mary’s Church, 19 Congress St., Orange, MA 01364.
Witty’s Funeral Home, 158 South Main Street, Orange, is assisting the family.