Mary L. (Stacy) Bassett

Mary L. Bassett of Shelburne Falls passed away peacefully on January 30, 2018 following a period of declining health. She was surrounded by her loving family in her home of 75 years.

Mary was born in Brattleboro, VT on February 17, 1922, the daughter of Alva and Mary (Alexander) Stacy. She was a graduate of Arms Academy in Shelburne Falls. Mary married Ralph W. Bassett on July 11, 1942. They celebrated 50 years of marriage before his passing in 1991.

Mary and Ralph began life together raising a family on the farm. Mary was the ultimate crafter, creating quilts, knitting and other crafts for her home, family and friends. Her life was full as a homemaker, raising a family and supporting her husband as a chicken farmer. Mary’s homemaking skills and love of family was known by all who knew her. Her homemade rolls and chocolate pie were favorites of many family gatherings. She took great pride in decorating and maintaining her beautiful home. Mary’s love of flowers was evident in her well maintained gardens and lawns, mowing her own lawns until she was 94. She was fiercely proud of her grandchildren and great grandchildren and all of their accomplishments.

Mary packed apples for Peck’s Orchards in Shelburne for over 20 years. She managed the Market Basket Store on the Mohawk Trail where her baking skills were a highlight with the customers. She was also employed as a Sales Clerk at the former Peggy Parker’s Store in Greenfield.

Mary was a member of Trinity Church in Shelburne Falls and a past Guiding Star Grange member of Shelburne. Mary’s friends were a great source of joy to her whether playing cards, lunching out or just visiting on her porch in the summer. Her summer friends across the road, the Purinton family, were always caring of her as was Millie March, a faithful friend.

Mary was predeceased by her husband Ralph W. Bassett, a son Ralph William (Bill) Bassett. Her brothers Alva C. Stacy and Reuben L. Stacy, sisters Sarah E. Maynard, Grace M Stafford, and her twin sister Mae L. Lovering.

She leaves behind a daughter, Pamela Twitchell (David) of Whitingham, VT, and a son Robert W. (Connie) Bassett of Shelburne Falls. Her grandchildren Kimberly Tawney, Robert Wade Bassett, Toby Bassett, Abby Gilbert, Dave Twicthell, and Jessica Twitchell, 12 great grandchildren and another one due in May. She also leaves behind many loving nieces and nephews.

A funeral service will be held Monday, February 5, 2018 at 12:00pm at the Smith-Kelleher Funeral Home, 40 Church St., Shelburne Falls. A visiting hour will precede the service from 11:00 am to 12:00 pm. Burial will follow in Arms Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Hospice of Franklin County, 329 Conway St., Greenfield, MA 01301

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