I am so sorry to just now hear of Rae's death as I send out my Christmas cards - including one to Rae. I missed her death notice last January, but I wish to share my memories of Rae.

Rae was a physical therapy patient of mine more than 25 years ago when she lived in Needham. I worked for the VNA one summer and visited with Rae about 2-3 times a week. And that is what it was - more

I am so sorry to just now hear of Rae's death as I send out my Christmas cards - including one to Rae. I missed her death notice last January, but I wish to share my memories of Rae.

Rae was a physical therapy patient of mine more than 25 years ago when she lived in Needham. I worked for the VNA one summer and visited with Rae about 2-3 times a week. And that is what it was - more of a "visit" than a treatment session as she was so gracious and welcoming. Among the exercises and gait training I heard about her life - especially about her son. She asked about my family and career plans. I fondly remember her care of me (!) when she found out I was pregnant with my first child and suffering from morning sickness. She was the first to know!

Over the years we kept in touch, mostly through Christmas cards and photos, sometimes with an occasional visit. She always remained interested in others, a warm, gracious person. She was a delight and she will be missed.

Sincerely,
Joyce White
Associate Professor of Physical Therapy
UMass Lowell

After her husband’s death, our mother, Kathleen Heffernan at age 93 moved from her large home in Milton to a small second floor condominium in Needham. With the help of her children, she settled in to her new surroundings. On the second morning came a knock at her door, and Kathleen welcomed a petite woman, finely dressed, delivering a plate of warm orange muffins, who later introduced herself as Hortense Raworth, her neighbor across the hall. “Everyone calls me Rae,”

After her husband’s death, our mother, Kathleen Heffernan at age 93 moved from her large home in Milton to a small second floor condominium in Needham. With the help of her children, she settled in to her new surroundings. On the second morning came a knock at her door, and Kathleen welcomed a petite woman, finely dressed, delivering a plate of warm orange muffins, who later introduced herself as Hortense Raworth, her neighbor across the hall. “Everyone calls me Rae,” the lady said. “you can come visit me any time.”
So started a warm relationship that lasted almost ten years! Mother enjoyed so much their visits, back and forth between their units, and the delicious, gourmet meals Rae cooked and often shared. Rae soon met Kathleen’s eight children, thirty-two grandchildren, and over fifty great-grandchildren, and Rae was invited to Kathleen’s large, family birthday parties every year. Their friendship grew deeper as they shared afternoon tea, occasional dinners, and family stories over the years. Even though Rae was a few years younger than Kathleen, they were always there for each other, true companions during good days and bad. One of Rae’s nicest traits was a happy disposition with a great sense of humor. She could really make my mother laugh (!) even though that was not in my mother’s more serious nature to do.
Just a couple of months ago, my sister Joan and I visited Rae at her new home, The Stone Institute in Newton. She was happy to see us, beautifully dressed, showing us around her lovely rooms. It was so nice to find her contented and comfortable in her new surroundings.
She was a very special lady, Rae was! I picture our mother, Kathleen, and Rae greeting each other in that beautiful land once again to live happily ever after! May God bless her always.

Respectfully yours,
Kathleen Heffernan’s second daughter, Peg Laughlin

ph: 508 359 9836. No email
(posted for Peg Laughlin by her son, Tom Laughlin, whose email is above)

Charles..I never got a chance to meet you...but I am the hairdresser at S

Charles...I was greatly saddened by the news of your MOTHER'S passing
I am the hairdresser at STONE...and had many great times with your MOM

and will greatly miss her...please know the love and respect for you that she had was like none I've ever seen!!!
Sincerely..Cassie Murphy

I loved your mother she taught me how to cook. My first Bridal Shower was at her house. I remember dinners at Grandad's also, but I remember especially her apple pies, they were the best!
Love,
Loretta

We are so sorry to hear about your Mother.Buddy and I have many beautiful memories especially the Sunday dinners at Grandads. I still remember her fruit cakes at Crristmas time they were the best just like her. She will always be remembered We have lost a very beautiful Lady. Love Rose and Buddy