Shrewsbury – Bette C. (Sterner) Jonaitis, long-time Shrewsbury resident, died Sunday April 23, 2023 in Shrewsbury Nursing Home. She was 92.
Born in Worcester and raised in Shrewsbury, only daughter of the late Gustaf E. and Elvira H. (Svenson) Sterner. She graduated from Major Howard W. Beal High School and then explored Dental Hygienist training before meeting the love of her life, George Jonaitis, Jr., whom she married on June 17, 1950.
She and George settled in Shrewsbury, where Bette was a full-time Mom and devoted wife, they spent the next 64 years together before George passed in 2014. When the children were grown, Bette did take a part-time sales job that she enjoyed at Ethan Allen Furniture Store in Auburn.
Bette loved entertaining and always made summers fun for her grandchildren by having many backyard pool parties for them and their friends. She also made every Sunday enjoyable by hosting breakfast for her family, to catch up on all the news, gossip, and details of the week. Most of all, Bette relished her time spent with her family. She will be greatly missed by her loving family and friends.
Bette is survived by her loving children, George Jonaitis III and his partner Donna of St. Simons Island, Georgia, Suzanne Durkin and her husband Joseph of Bourne, Gary Jonaitis and his wife Laura of Wareham; also survived by eight grandchildren, five great grandchildren, son-in-law, Paul Pazareskis several nieces and nephews, and wonderful friends. Bette was predeceased by her beloved husband, George and her loving daughter, Joanne Jonaitis.
Bette’s family will be remembering her life privately at a graveside service at the family plot in Mountain View Cemetery in Shrewsbury. There are no calling hours.
Britton-Shrewsbury Funeral Home, 648 Main Street, Shrewsbury is honored to be assisting the Jonaitis family with arrangements.
