Marlborough – Mary E. (Ditson) Friree, 93, formerly of Newton Highlands, died Thursday, Nov. 3, 2011 at Marlborough Hospital. She was the beloved wife of the late Frank L. Friree.
Born and raised in Blackstone, daughter of the late Ralph Oliver and Mary (Bateson) Ditson, she attended local schools and was a graduate of Katherine Gibbs College in Rhode Island. She was employed as an Executive Secretary by Sylvania GTE in Needham for 22 years until she retired in 1987.
Mrs. Friree was a longtime resident of Newton Highlands prior to moving to Marlborough, where she has resided the past 8-plus years at Crane Meadow. She enjoyed reading and especially enjoyed the company of her friends as a member of the Crane Meadow Book Club.
She is survived by her son, Stephen Friree and his wife Suzanne of Marlborough; her daughter-in-law, Susan Friree, wife of the late John Friree of Hudson; eight grandchildren; six great-grandchildren; and several nieces and nephews. She was the sister of the late John Ditson of Rhode Island.
Family and friends may attend calling hours Monday, Nov. 7, from 5 to 7 p.m., at the Tighe-Hamilton Funeral Home, Inc., 50 Central St., Hudson. A private graveside service will be held in Newton Cemetery, Walnut Street, Newton, at the convenience of the family.
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to: Marlborough Hospital, c/o Ellen Carlucci, Development Office, 157 Union St., Marlborough, MA 01752.
