Shrewsbury – Gloria D’Andrea, 87, of Shrewsbury, formerly of Locust Avenue, passed away unexpectedly in her home on May 25, 2021. Born in Worcester, Gloria was one of six children of Raffaele and Maria (Scardino) D’Andrea.
Raised in the Lakeview neighborhood of Worcester, she graduated from Commerce High School, class of 1952, where she was also a standout athlete. She has lived in her family home all her life.
Gloria then began a life of family, faith, and work. She worked over 35 years as supervisor of personal lines, for the George M. Abodeely Insurance Company before retiring in 2003.
Gloria also lived a life of faith, as a dedicated and devoted member of St. Margaret Mary Church and now St Anne’s Church in Shrewsbury. Gloria could always be seen in church, attending Mass, serving its parishioners and pastors as a lector, eucharistic minister, CCD teacher or in any position that needed her. She additionally lectured at St Paul’s Cathedral for many years.
Not blessed with any children, Gloria’s life revolved around family. She dedicated herself to caring for her family, notably making sure her parents were well cared for and healthy. Her brothers and sisters had all the support or assistance they needed and she treated her nieces and nephews as her own children. She was a kind and gentle woman with a huge heart and giving personality.
Gloria is survived by the family that loved her, her sister, Nancy A. Laplante of Worcester; many nieces and nephews; and a large amount of extended family members, including nephews David and Scott Laplante and nieces, Linda Watson and Lisa Genatossio and their families. Two brothers, Anthony, and Joseph D’Andrea; two sisters, Lucille D. Frongillo and Maria Connor; and a nephew, Stephen Laplante, all predeceased her.
A period of calling hours will be held Saturday, May 29, from 8:30-9:30 a.m., in the Mercadante Funeral Home & Chapel, 370 Plantattion, St., Worcester, before proceeding to St. Anne’s Church, 130 Boston Tpke., where her Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 10 a.m. Burial will follow in St John’s Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions in her name can be made to St. Anne Human Services, 130 Boston Tpke., Shrewsbury, MA 01545.
