Jane B. (Ward) Michaud, 84, of Worcester, died peacefully in her home on June 14, 2010 after a long illness.

    She leaves a devoted daughter, Maryjane Michaud O'Connor and her husband, Robert, of Worcester, with whom she lived, and a loving son, Joseph E. Michaud and his wife, Ellen, of San Diego, CA. She also leaves her sister, Ann Boudreau, of Worcester; her goddaughter, Sheila Early, of Whittier, CA; the girls in "Club"; the "telephone" girls; the Early children: Fran, Michael, Dennis, Patty, Betty, Tim, Matt and Beth; several nieces, nephews and many friends. Her three brothers, Robert, Paul and Richard, her lifelong best friend, Margaret Early and Margaret's daughter, Kathy, predeceased her.

    Born in Worcester, she was the daughter of John J. and Theresa (Carney) Ward. She lived and worked in Worcester for most of her life. Jane was a retired telephone operator from New England Telephone and AT&T, and a lifelong member of Blessed Sacrament Church in Worcester. Her beautiful sweet smile, her quiet nature and her kindness to others affected many people.

    The family would sincerely like to thank the staff and nurses of both Christopher House and UMass Memorial Hospice and Home Health who were always caring, respectful and compassionate with their mother. They especially want to thank their mother's home health aide, Mary T., whose warmth and gentleness comforted their mother during her final most difficult days.

    The funeral will be Thursday, June 17 from RICE FUNERAL HOME, 300 Park Ave., with Mass at 10 a.m. in Blessed Sacrament Church, 551 Pleasant Street. A private interment at Worcester County Memorial Park, Paxton, will be held at a later date. Calling hours for Jane will be held on Wednesday evening, June 16th from 4 to 7 p.m. at the funeral home.

    In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorial donations be made to the UMass Memorial Hospice, c/o UMass Memorial Foundation, P. O. Box 2795, Worcester MA 01613-9938.