Grace Mae Heckley

Heckley, Grace Mae of Pepperell, formerly of Charlestown, passed away on February 19, 2024 at the age of 96. She is predeceased by her husband Manuel after 74 years of marriage and their daughter Sandra. She is survived by her four sons, George of Westminster and his wife Mary, Steve of Carlisle and his wife Diane, Manuel of Townsend and his wife Alice, and Wayne of Tyngsborough and his wife Patricia; by her niece Claire Shea, of Charlestown; and her sister-in-law, Hannah Grandi of Lynn. She is also survived by her grandchildren Neil, Lauren, Christopher, Kevin, Eric, Colleen, and Erin; and by her great-grandchildren Jacob, Madison, Olivia, Elena, and Charlotte.

Grace was born and raised in Charlestown. She spoke fondly and frequently of her early years working at Harry Elliott’s store on Main Street where she made many friends and acquaintances. She and her family were active members of the First Congregational Church of Charlestown where Grace sang in the church choir in weekly services and holiday events. 

After high school she was employed at the Boston Chamber of Commerce until her marriage to Manuel when he returned home from World War II. They moved to Mansonville, Quebec to manage a dairy farm for several years before returning to Charlestown to raise their family. There she enjoyed many years with her sisters and brothers all living only a few streets apart.

After retirement they moved to their Pepperell home from which they traveled on cross country and daily trips around New England. She hosted Sunday dinners and holiday events for her children and their families. In her heart though she always remained a proud “Charlestown Townie”. 

Grace was a loving daughter who cared for both of her aging parents for many years until their passing. She was a devoted wife and mother working tirelessly to provide a loving and nurturing home for her husband and her four children. She devoted her life to her family and would go to any length to protect and care for them. The guidance that she provided, the example that she set, and the love that she gave had a powerful influence on each of them. She will be forever loved and missed by her children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, nieces, and nephews. 

A private family service is planned. Interment at Woodlawn Cemetery in Pepperell. In lieu of flowers, expressions of sympathy may be made to the Boys & Girls Club of Boston via www.bgcb.org