Published in the November 18, 2016 edition
MELROSE — Jean E. Blake, 85, a resident of Melrose, passed away peacefully at Wingate of Melrose on Friday, Nov. 11.
Born on Dec. 27, 1930 in Malden, she was one of nine children of the late Arthur and Helen (Maguire) Blake. Jean was raised in Malden where she graduated from Cheverus High School.
Jean found the call to serve God and entered the Monastery of Poor St. Clare in Jamaica Plain where she lived a prayerful, quiet life. She retired after 17 years and began her second career as a receptionist and housekeeper for the rectory at St. George Church in Framingham.
Jean enjoyed being around children and watching them grow. While living in Framingham, she generously volunteered her service in the local schools and, after moving to Melrose, read Christmas stories for young children. In her free time, Jean enjoyed reading, cooking and collected many hand bells. She also served as secretary at the Steele House and was a parishioner of Most Blessed Sacrament Church.
Jean was predeceased by her eight siblings. She was the dear sister of the late Ruth Toomey, Arthur Blake Jr., Alice Felix, Marie (Sister Andre) Blake, Anna Durning, Lawrence Blake, Dorothy Crosby and James Blake. Also survived by many nieces and nephews.
Relatives and friends gathered in honor and remembrance of Jean’s life at the Robinson Funeral Home, 809 Main St., Melrose on Tuesday, Nov. 15 from 5 to 8 p.m. and again on Wednesday at 9 a.m. before leaving in procession to Most Blessed Sacrament Church, 1155 Main St., Wakefield for her funeral Mass celebrated at 10 a.m.
For online tribute, visit RobinsonFuneralHome.com.
