Published in the October 19, 2018 edition

STONEHAM — Louise C. DeChristopher of Stoneham (formerly of Chelsea) died peacefully on October 4, 2018.

She was the loving daughter of the late John A. and Mary (D’lacono) DeChristopher.

Louise graduated from Chelsea High School in 1941. She went on to attend secretarial school in Boston and quickly landed a job she loved with the Social Security Office in Chelsea. She was very proud of her service to the federal government and retired after more than30 years. Louise was most passionate about her family and the wonderful times she spent with them. She adorned her home with lovely furnishings and derived great pleasure from making a lovely home. After the sudden passing of her beloved father, she devoted her life to her mother. A highlight of her life was a trip to Italy with her mother to reunite with the many relatives her mother had to leave behind many years before.

She was affectionately known as “Lou” to her cherished niece and nephews. They were truly the light of her life and let them know that in so many generous ways. Her love was constant and true and extended to her great-nieces and nephews as well. Louise knew and loved Italian cooking and became a great cook herself. Food was love and there was always more than enough. She loved setting a beautiful table and having her family and friends around it. In 1991, she finally had her own home on a lovely tree lined street in Stoneham. Leaving Chelsea after so many years was eased by the coziness of her own home and she resided there with her mother and brother until their passing.

Louise was a kind and gracious lady, even as her health declined. She was a beloved resident of the Aberjona Nursing facility in Winchester where she received loving care until her passing. Louise was predeceased by her cherished brother Dr. Frank A. DeChristopher and many relatives and friends. She is survived by her niece Susan Davis and her husband Daniel of Gloucester, and nephews Chris DeChristopher of Andover, John DeChristopher Sr. and his wife Kelly of Scituate, and Matthew DeChristopher and his wife Karen of North Reading; great-nephews John DeChristopher, Jr. and his wife Keely, Keith Vient and Nicholas Vient and wife Lauren, and Derek and Joshua DeChristopher; great-nieces Danielle and Kasandra DeChristopher, great great-niece Fiona and great great-nephew Dylan DeChristopher. 

Visiting hours will be held at the Gately Funeral Home, 79 W. Foster St., Melrose on Saturday morning, October 27 from 11-11:30 a.m., followed by a funeral service in the funeral home at 11:30 a.m.  Relatives and friends respectfully invited to attend. Burial will be private. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made in Louise’s name to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, 262 Danny Thomas Pl., Memphis, TN 38105. To send a message of condolence please visit www.gatelyfh.com