Roberta M. (Ward) Ainsworth

Roberta M. (Ward) Ainsworth, 95, passed away on Wednesday, April 13, 2016.

She was born in Shelburne, MA on September 20, 1920 the daughter of Hugh F. and Mary E. (Hancock) Ward. She attended local schools and graduated from the former Arms Academy as a member of the class of 1938. Following graduation she attended the Academie deBeaupe in Greenfield where she received a diploma in hairdressing.

From 1939 to 1947 she was employed by the late Clara Reed as a hairdresser. From 1967 to 1972 she was employed by LaBelle's Nursing Home in Shelburne Falls when it was under the ownership of Janice LaBelle. Her last place of employment was at the Mt. Hermon School in Northfield as part of the kitchen staff from 1972 to 1982.

She was a member, and former choir member, of Trinity Church in Shelburne Falls. She was also a member of the Rebekah Lodge in Shelburne Falls.

Her greatest joy was her family. Her unconditional love for her husband, daughters, grandchildren and great grandchildren was her strength and support. She will be forever missed by her family.

On May 17, 1942 Roberta was married to E. Archie Ainsworth and together they celebrated 64 years of marriage prior to his passing on October 19, 2006.

Survivors include her four daughters; JoAnne Wells of Heath, MA, Joyce M. Griswold of Shelburne, Beth E. Clark of Bellows Falls, VT, Pamela J. (Joe) Miner of Colrain, grandchildren and great grandchildren; Kelly (Heidi) Griswold and Kenny and Kirsten, Melissa Griswold and Ashley, and Chelsey, Casey (Shannon) Griswold and Amber, Mitchell, Chloe, Gracie and Zander, Christopher Clark and Nehemiah, and Kristen Clark.

A funeral will be held Friday, April 22 at 11:00 am at the Smith-Kelleher Funeral Home, 40 Church St., Shelburne Falls. Burial will be at the convenience of the family.

Visiting hours will be Thursday, April 21 from 6 to 8 pm at the funeral home.

It is suggested memorial contributions may be made to the American Cancer Society of Western Mass., 30 Speen St., Framingham, MA 01701.

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