On April 18, Alene Ruth Stuart, 72, became a “freed soul, now to soar” after a long struggle with pancreatic cancer after having survived breast cancer fifteen years ago. She was a warrior!

Alene was a lifelong resident of Cherry Valley. Born in Worcester, MA to Edmund A. and Doris (Brosky) Stuart. She graduated from St Joseph’s School, Notre Dame Academy and attended Worcester Art Museum School, Becker College as well as taking numerous classes at local universities, libraries and societies.

After a productive management career of 27 years at Thom McAn, a division of Melville Corp., she retired and went on to focus on a second career with Fuller, Rosenburg, Palmer and Beliveau Law Firm for twenty years. Through the years she made many lifelong friendships that especially manifested during her illness. For all those that were there to help physically and spiritually through this illness she was wholeheartedly grateful.

Alene was a celebrated artist in Worcester County. Notably recognized in the art community as a protégé of Bill Griffiths. Other Interests included watercolor painting; genealogy, because of her proud family heritage; skiing, wine tasting and all craft mediums.

She leaves one sister, Jeanne Stuart Dufresne of North Fort Myers, Florida to cherish her memory as well as many friends.

A Celebration of life will be held at MORIN FUNERAL HOME, 1131 Main Street, Leicester, MA on Friday, May 6 at 10:00 AM. Burial will follow immediately at Worcester County Memorial Park, Paxton, MA. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in her memory to Second Chance Animal Services P.O. Box 136, East Brookfield, MA 01515 or to the charity of one’s choice.