Derry, NH: — Irene M. (Dodier) DeRusha, 87, of Derry, formerly of Plaistow, passed away peacefully with her beloved family by her side on Monday January 14, 2013 at Parkland Medical Center in Derry following a long illness.
She was born in Haverhill, MA at Dodier Village on February 16, 1925 the daughter of the late Gedeon and Grace (St. Cyr) Dodier.
In her early years she was employed at a local shoe factory and was later a bus chaperone for special needs children in the Timberlane School District; however, her outstanding contributions as a wife and mother were her most important roles in life.
She had boundless energy for her children and the rest of her loving family and friends – always the biggest kid at heart. Irene won the fashion award wherever she went, with her stylish jewelry and shoes – a color for every occasion! Her love for fun and dance engaged us all at every family event, from her siblings to her great grandchildren. She was the belle of the ball!
Irene treasured her collection of dolls, shoe knick-knacks and many home shopping purchases. She was the most kindhearted, forgiving, understanding and thoughtful person you would want to know. She was somebody you would always want to have on your side and welcome into your home.
Irene was predeceased by her husband, Marlon S. DeRusha, her daughter, Marla DeRusha, her sisters, Florence Lafontaine and Elaine Millette, brothers, Louis, George and Alfred Dodier. She is survived by and will be greatly missed by her daughter and best friend, Lisa DeRusha, her kitties, Oliver and Zoe of Derry, NH, her sons, Dennis Dodier and wife Susan of Wilmington, MA, Craig DeRusha and wife Debbie of Oregon City, OR, Calvin DeRusha of East Hampstead, NH and Kevin DeRusha and wife Gloria of Sandown, NH. Her sister, Gertrude Clayton of Haverhill, her brothers, John Dodier and wife Lorraine of Merrimac, MA and Walter Dodier of Haverhill, MA. Grandchildren, Matthew Dodier, Sarah Dodier, Joseph DeRusha, Martine DeRusha, Allana DeRusha and Joseph Grella. Great grandchildren, Skylar DeRusha, Jaxon DeRusha and Lucy Dodier also survive her.
ARRANGEMENTS: Friends and family may call on Thursday January 17, 2013 from 4 to 8 PM at Brookside Chapel & Funeral Home 116 Main Street in Plaistow Village, NH 03865. Her funeral will begin on Friday January 18, 2013 at 9 AM from the funeral home with a Mass of Christian Burial following at 10 AM at All Saints Parish, Haverhill, MA. Burial will take place at a later date at the convenience of her family.
In-Lieu of flowers, donations are requested to Breathe New Hampshire, 145 Hollis St., Unit C, Manchester, NH 03101. Please visit www.brooksidechapelfh.com to sign the on-line guest book.
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