JENNIFER N LAMARCHE

Our beloved sister, Jennifer Noelle Lamarche, 51, of Worcester, passed away peacefully and with dignity on Saturday, November 23, surrounded by her family and group home staff. Jennifer’s health had declined rapidly over the past several years due to Alzheimer’s Disease, a devastating fate for so many young, vibrant individuals with Down’s Syndrome. Despite this, Jennifer’s radiant smile, genuineness, and unwavering determination shone through until her final breath. She was a remarkable force, embodying everything real and meaningful in life.

Jennifer’s legacy lives on through her three brothers: Charles M. Lamarche Jr. and his wife, Amy of Houma, LA; Michael S. Lamarche and his wife, Kristi of Minneapolis, MN; and Steven M. Lamarche and his wife, Shannon of Pomfret Center, CT. She shared a cherished “power sister” bond with her sister-in-law, Shannon. Jennifer adored her nieces and nephews; Jamie, Daxton, Ryder, Keon, and Kealyn, who brought her endless happiness.

Jennifer’s fierce independence flourished after the passing of our mother, Pauline Julia Lamarche, in 2004. She demonstrated incredible strength and resilience; traits instilled in her by our late mother. Our father, Charles M. Lamarche Sr., predeceased her in 2013. Jennifer was also predeceased by the love of her life, Matthew L. Harding, in May 2020. Together, Jennifer and Matt shared more than 25 years of semi-independent living. Their mutual love for local professional sports led them to countless games, including nearly annual trips to Red Sox spring training. They were an extraordinary couple, living modestly and with a purity admired by all who knew them.

Jennifer was raised to value hard work, a principle she carried throughout her life. For nearly 25 years, she worked proudly at McDonald’s in Holden, MA, where her contributions left lasting memories. Her abilities and dedication were unmatched, and she truly “ran the place” until Alzheimer’s diminished her capabilities. Our family extends heartfelt thanks to the Hurley family for their unwavering support, open communication, and appreciation for Jennifer’s work ethic. We know their customers were deeply enriched by her quiet, unassuming presence.

Though it’s impossible to capture Jennifer’s remarkable life fully, she lived it to the fullest, embracing family, friends, and a community she uplifted through her vibrant personality and countless activities. Jennifer earned nearly 100 awards and medals through Special Olympics MA, a testament to her boundless energy and determination. In her later years, Jennifer shared her loving spirit with her group home community at 50 Forest Street in Worcester. Her roommates and staff quickly came to cherish her warmth and full-hearted personality. We are profoundly grateful for the care and love they showed her as we watched her gradually slip away.

Jennifer had a powerful spirit that left an impression on everyone she met. She was honest, always letting you know where you stood, and never one to ask for a gift, though she delighted in thoughtful surprises. In her honor, and staying true to her selfless character, we ask that in lieu of flowers, you give a gift in her name to a person or place meaningful to you.

Her funeral is Friday, November 29th with a Mass at 11:00 a.m. in Blessed Sacrament Church, 551 Pleasant Street followed by burial in Worcester County Memorial Park, 217 Richards Avenue, Paxton. A visitation will be held from 9:30 a.m. until 10:30 a.m. on Friday, November 29th in O’CONNOR BROTHERS FUNERAL HOME, 592 Park Avenue, Worcester.