http://www.wittyfuneralhome.com/

Witty's Funeral Home, 158 S Main Street, Orange, MA (2026)

10/15/2026

October 15, 2026

Sandra J. Mallet

ATHOL- Sandra J. (Woodard) Mallet, 68, of Pine Street, died on Saturday, October 10, 2026 at t. Vincent Hospital in Worcester following a courageous battle with lung cancer.
Born in Athol on April 7, 1958, she was the daughter of George F. and Eleanor N. (Waslaski) Woodard and grew up in Athol and attended Athol schools, later earning her GED.
Sandra had worked at Cumberland Farms for many years and previously employed at the Athol Table Shop.
Sandra loved gardening, camping, fishing, snowmobiling and ice skating. She especially enjoyed skiing with her sister Cheryl. Besides her outside activities, Sandra like to play pool and was an amazing cook.
Sandra was baptized Catholic, but later became a member of the Starrett Memorial United Methodist Church in Athol. She had a strong faith in her religion.
Sandra is survived by her son, Eric Mallet of Gardner; her former daughter in law Jackie Bailey of Gardner; her pride and joy and grandson, Shea Mallet of Gardner; brothers, John Woodard and his wife Leah, and George Woodard Jr., all of Athol; nieces, Tabitha Lockey of Easthampton and Emily Woodard and Sophia Woodard, both of Athol; and several grandnephews and grandnieces.
Besides her parents, Sandy is predeceased by her sister Cheryl Snow.
In accordance with Sandy’s wishes, there will be no calling hours or services.
Witty’s Funeral Home, 158 South Main Street, Orange, is assisting the family.

10/13/2026

October 13, 2026

Rita J. Batchelor

ATHOL– Rita J. Batchelor, 90, of Athol, passed away on Sunday morning, October 11, 2026, at Quabbin Valley Healthcare in Athol, surrounded by her loving family.
Rita was born on November 18, 1935, in Athol, daughter of the late Leo R. Marquis and the late Irene D. (Chicoine) Marquis. She grew up in Athol and graduated from Athol High School.
Rita worked for The L. S. Starrett Company for 35 years, retiring in 2000.
She was a communicant of Our Lady Immaculate Church. Rita enjoyed spending time with her family, painting and drawing, cuddling with her 11-year-old Chihuahua Miah, sewing, gardening, and cooking, always searching the internet for a new recipe to try. At family parties, she was especially known for making her delicious banana bread and creamy blonde fudge. Rita enjoyed playing cards on Friday nights with her family, the occasional trip to the casino, and RVing with the love of her life Clifford Batchelor, taking a once-in-a-lifetime trip to Alaska after retiring.
Rita had a happy-go-lucky personality, always finding a way to make you laugh.
Rita is survived by her children, Ronny R. Cote, and his wife Robin, of Athol, MA, and Denise M. Robinson, and her husband Bruce, of Royalston, MA; grandchildren Meghan and Sarah Cote, Steven and Katelyn Robinson, and Derek Duguay; great-grandchildren Sophia and Mia Stange, Landon Fournier, and Jay Robinson; as well as many nephews and nieces. She had a very special bond with her brother Eddie’s eldest daughter, Diane, who continued to be a close confidant throughout her lifetime, supporting her family through her final days as she made her journey home to be with her Heavenly family.
Besides her parents, Rita was predeceased by her first husband Ronny R. Cote, and her second husband Clifford Batchelor, as well as her five siblings, Gloria Robichaud, Leo Marquis, Edward Marquis, Raymond Marquis, and Richard Marquis.
Services will be private.
Witty’s Funeral Home, 158 South Main Street, Orange, is assisting the family.

10/12/2026

October 12, 2026

William H. Linton

ATHOL- The family of William H. Linton (Bill) is deeply saddened to announce his passing on October 10th at the age of 90.
He was born in Stewart, Ohio on August 21, 1936, to Evan and Helen Linton. He married Mary Ann (Ahart) on October 1st, 1955, and they shared 71 beautiful years together.
Bill’s working years included time with the Ohio Gas Co., Erving Paper Mill, Swift River Bus Co., and Rodney Hunt Co., from which he retired as a machinist.
He is survived by his wife, Mary Ann; his oldest daughter, Lou Anne David and her husband Michael of Florida and Pennsylvania; his son, William G. Linton and his wife Shari of Iowa; his youngest daughter, Faith Griffiths and her husband John of Florida and Athol; 6 grandchildren; 13 great-grandchildren; and several nieces and nephews. Besides his parents, he was predeceased by his sister, Carolyn Suzanne Linton.
There will be a private burial at a later date.
Witty’s Funeral Home, 158 South Main Street, Orange, is assisting the family

10/09/2026

October 9, 2026

Judith H. Rathburn

ORANGE, MA – Judith H. "Judy" (Risatti) Rathburn passed away peacefully on Tuesday, October 6, 2026, in Leominster, Massachusetts, with her cherished family by her side, just as she wished. We take comfort in knowing she has been reunited in Heaven with her loved ones, especially her beloved daughter, Tracy (Cacciolfi) Matthews, and her husband of 43 years, Richard "Dick" Rathburn.
Born on April 4, 1943, in Holyoke, Massachusetts, Judy was the daughter of the late Leno Risatti and the late Marjorie (Banks) Ball. Raised in Petersham, she spent most of her life in the Athol and Orange area, remaining close to the family she loved so dearly. Family was always the center of her world.
Judy was feisty, funny, and outgoing. She loved to talk, and there was no such thing as a "quick" phone call with her. Conversations often lasted an hour or more. She made friends wherever she went and left a lasting impression on everyone she met. Laughter seemed to follow her, especially when she was surrounded by her siblings, with whom she shared countless joyful memories.
Judy also made a lasting impact throughout the North Quabbin community. For more than ten years, she worked at The United Arc as a Parent Educator for the Positive Parenting Program. In this role, she facilitated parent education groups, supervised home visits, and helped countless families develop valuable parenting skills. Through her warmth, wisdom, compassion, and sense of humor, she made families feel comfortable, respected, and heard. She was equally valued by her coworkers and was a treasured member of the Arc community.
Judy is survived by her children, Mark and wife Lisa Cacciolfi of Wareham, Massachusetts; Stephen-George Groccia of Worcester, Massachusetts; Scott Cacciolfi of Athol, Massachusetts, and the cherished memory of his late soulmate, Paula Houde; and Michelle Perusse and husband Douglas of Orange, Massachusetts. Her siblings Don Risatti and Joy Risatti of Orange, Kathy Augustine and husband Roger of Gill, MA, Shari Boucher and husband Bruce of Swansey, NH and Bobby Ball Jr of Athol, as well as their many children.
She is also survived by her stepchildren: Judy Adams and husband Larry of Wrentham, Massachusetts; Timothy Rathburn and wife Karen of Milton, Florida; Cynthia Grimard and husband Mike of Erving, Massachusetts; John Rathburn and wife Nancy of Athol, Massachusetts; and especially Sandra Murcell and her life partner, Topo Hakkinen, of Orange, Massachusetts.
It would be impossible to speak of Judy without mentioning her beloved grandchildren, whom she loved beyond measure: Jennifer Rahaim and her partner, Justin Hicks; twin grandsons Thomas and Nicholas Rahaim; Nicholas Fifield; Zachary Cacciolfi; and Andrew Matthews. She also leaves behind her cherished great-grandchildren, Kaelyn, Alexia, Haley, and Cameron.
Family and friends are invited to attend calling hours, services, and a Celebration of Life at Athol Congregational Church, 1225 Chestnut Street, Athol, Massachusetts, on Monday, October 26, beginning at 10:00 a.m. Judy was a longtime member of the church, where she and Dick were married in 1982.
A private burial will be held later that day.
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made in Judy's honor to The United Arc of Franklin County at:
https://unitedarc.org/donate.html
Witty’s Funeral Home, 158 South Main Street, Orange, is assisting the family.

10/08/2026

October 8, 2026

Edward T. "Eddie" Gordon

ORANGE- Calling hours on Monday, October 12, 2026 from 2-4 p.m. at Witty's Funeral Home, 158 South Main Street, Orange. A funeral service will follow at 4 p.m. in the funeral home.

10/08/2026

October 8, 2026

Sally A. Morin

ORANGE- A funeral service will be held on Saturday, October 10, 2026 at 10 a.m. in Witty's Funeral Home, 158 South Main Street, Orange, for Sally A. (Gates) Morin, 86, who died September 10, 2026
Interment will follow in South Cemetery, Orange.

10/08/2026

October 8, 2026

Gary A. Suomala

ATHOL- Calling hours will be held Friday evening, October 9, 2026 from 5-7 p.m. at Witty's Funeral Home, 158 South Main Street, Orange, for Gary A. Suomala, 63, who died September 18, 2026.

09/29/2026

September 29, 2026

Edward T. Gordon

Edward “Eddie” Thomas Gordon was a beloved son, brother, uncle and friend. He was a bright light in the lives of everyone who knew him. Eddie unexpectedly passed away after a short illness on September 18, 2026. A lifelong resident of Orange, MA, he was born on June 18, 1991 to parents Douglas A. Gordon Jr. and Helen Melissa (Andrzejczyk) Gordon and an exceptionally proud big sister, Holly Gordon.
Eddie lived a life filled with happiness, laughter, adventure and most of all, love. He had a special way of bringing joy into the lives of everyone who knew him. His smile, his giggles, his unique sense of humor and the way he danced to his favorite songs will forever remain in the hearts of those who loved him. He shared an especially close and beautiful bond with his sister, Holly. Their relationship was one of love, companionship and a connection that words cannot fully describe.
A true lover of music and movies, Eddie had many favorites but none more than The Titanic. His love for the ocean was just as deep and he was fascinated by sharks, whales, dolphins, fish and mermaids. One of his most treasured adventures was an amazing trip to Disney World and Seaworld in 2015, creating memories that his family will cherish forever.
Eddie loved the simple pleasures of life – going for rides in the car, going out to eat, visiting family and friends, shopping, going to the movies, and of course swimming. He also enjoyed participating in group activities at Seven Hills where he made lifelong friends with his peers and the staff.
Eddie was predeceased by his grandparents Idella Gordon and Edward & Helen Andrzejczyk.
He is survived by his father Douglas (Penny), his mother Melissa; one sister Holly (Santiago); one niece Tiana Amazan and one nephew Saint Amazan all of Orange, MA and many aunts, uncles, cousins and friends who will miss him dearly.
Though his life was far too short, the impact he made was immeasurable. He taught those around him that happiness can be found in the simplest moments. He will be deeply missed, but his memory will live on in every song, every ocean wave, every movie watched, every car ride, every moment that brings a smile to the faces of those who loved him.
His life was a gift. His love was unconditional. His memory will be forever.
Until we meet again Eddie – you are safe in my heart, and my heart will go on and on.
Calling hours will be held on October 12, 2026 from 2-4 p.m. at Witty’s Funeral Home, 158 South Main Street, Orange. A funeral service will follow at 4 p.m. in the funeral home.
A celebration of life will be held on Sunday, October 18, 2026 from 1-4 p.m. at the Tully City Council Club, Inc., 365 Tully Road, Orange.
Witty’s Funeral Home, 158 South Main Street, Orange, is assisting the family.

09/29/2026

September 29, 2026

Nancy J. Anderson

ATHOL- Nancy J. (Primeau) Anderson, 63, of Park Street, died on Saturday, September 26, 2026 at Athol Hospital.
Born in Fitchburg on March 14, 1963, she was the daughter of Ralph and Theresa (Leblanc) Primeau and grew up in Fitchburg.
Nancy earned her GED and enlisted in the United States Army for a couple years before being honorably discharged due to an injury.
Nancy was married to Gary Anderson Sr. for 22 years.
Employed by the Internal Revenue Service for over ten years, Nancy had previously worked in the Food Services Dept. for Athol Elementary Schools.
A very active person, Nancy had enjoyed hiking and she was very dedicated to her children and grandchildren. Nancy was an avid baker and loved making treats for family and friends.
Nancy leaves her children, Tarrah Hart and her partner David Clapham of Phillipston, and Gary Anderson Jr. and his fiancée Kristen Harkay of Athol; grandchildren, Addalyn Hart and Lucas Hart; a sister, Lynne Kaudy and her husband Ray of Arizona; several nephews and nieces; her beloved cats Little and Callie; and fur-grandkids Arnie and Emmett.
Nancy was predeceased by her parents and a sister, Susan, and a step daughter, Nicole Anderson.
There are no calling hours.
A celebration of life will be held October 10, 2026 from 12 noon until 4 p.m. at Crossroads Church, 92 New Athol Road, Orange.
Donations in Nancy’s memory should be made to the Crossroads Church Youth Ministry, 92 New Athol Road, Orange, MA 01364.
Witty’s Funeral Home, 158 South Main Street, Orange, is assisting the family.

09/26/2026

September 26, 2026

Theles J. Blackbird

WENDELL– Theles John Blackbird, 79, of Bullard Road died peacefully at his home on Wednesday, September 23, 2026 surrounded by loved ones after a long, courageous battle with cancer.
Born in Winchendon on September 19, 1947, he was the son of the late Thelesfad and Joan (Deegan) Blackbird and was raised in Orange. On October 12, 1968, he married Florence (Clark) whom he met during his teen years at the White Cloud Restaurant where she worked as a carhop. They enjoyed 57 loving years of marriage together while raising their two sons in their post and beam home which Jay built from the ground up.
As a teen he worked for C.V. Trucking, owned by Harry Lyman. Many times throughout his life he would say how blessed he was to have been granted such trust at such a young age to drive dump trucks. In 1966, he enlisted in the U.S. Army, where he was schooled as a mechanic of turbine engines for Chinook helicopters. Jay was part of the 1st Air Cavalry Division. He served for one year in Viet Nam and later returned to the states to work on Huey helicopters. After his years of service, he dabbled in logging with Chester Clark, his father-in-law. In addition, Jay served as a part time Wendell police officer. Jay joined his father, Thelesfad, in the family electrical business which he eventually took over. Towards the end of his career he became the wiring inspector for the Town of Orange.
One of Jay's many joys in life was being Scoutmaster for Troop 344 while his sons were in scouting. He was a long time member of the North Congregational Church of New Salem where he served on the Building and Finance Committee. He was an avid reader and enjoyed taking care of his homestead.
Jay is survived by his loving wife, Florence Blackbird, sons Cain Blackbird (Jen) of Orange and Chad Blackbird (Mandy) of Wendell. In addition to being predeceased by his parents, he was predeceased by his brother, Kirk A. Blackbird.
Jay also leaves behind three grandsons whom he adored and was their biggest fan:
Gage (Gabby) and Oliver (Sophia) Blackbird of North Orange and Colby Blackbird of Wendell.
In addition, four step-grandchildren Tiffany Tenney of Orange, MacKenzie Riley (Cole) of Orange, Tori Tenney of Northampton, Jake Tenney of Athol and two Step great-grandchildren, Tillie and Brooks Riley of Orange.
A funeral will be held on Friday, October 2nd at 10:00 am at the North Congregational Church of New Salem, 60 Elm Street, New Salem, Massachusetts followed by a burial service at South Cemetery in Orange. There will be no calling hours.
In lieu of flowers memorial contributions may be made to the North Congregational Church of New Salem, 60 Elm Street, New Salem MA 01355 or Pioneer Valley Hospice 101 Munson Street Suite 103 Greenfield, MA 01301
Witty’s Funeral Home, 158 South Main Street, Orange will be assisting the family.

Witty's Funeral Home

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