Gertrude T. (Chalon) Thorpe, 87, a lifelong resident of Worcester, died Thursday, October 29, 2015 after a brief illness. Her husband of 70 years, Robert F. Thorpe, Sr. predeceased her on April 23, 2015. She leaves two sons, Gary F. Thorpe of Bradenton, FL and Alan F. Thorpe of Worcester; three daughters, Eileen F. Martell, Deborah J. Gaylord and Tammy E. d’Armagnac, all of Worcester; six grandchildren and eight great grandchildren to whom she was affectionately known as “Big Nana”; a brother, Charles Chalon of Worcester and many nephews and nieces. Gertrude was predeceased by her son, Robert F. Thorpe, Jr. in 2002; four brothers, William, Arthur, Francis and Richard Chalon and a sister, Ella Harkins.

She was born in Worcester, daughter of Francis and Jennie (Javarey) Chalon. Gertrude worked in the cafeteria at Doherty Memorial High School for many years before retiring in 1998 and prior to that, as a cook at the former Mill Hill Nursing Home for 15 years. She enjoyed crocheting, sewing and cooking for her family and friends and was an avid New England Patriots and Boston Red Sox fan. She also enjoyed and looked forward to having lunch with her pulmonary rehab friends.

Funeral services and burial in Worcester County Memorial Park, Paxton will be private. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the American Lung Association of the Northeast, 1661 Worcester Rd #301, Framingham, MA 01701.

Arrangements are in the care of CALLAHAN FAY & CASWELL Funeral Home, 61 Myrtle Street, Worcester.