She found her greatest joy in spending time with her beloved children and grandchildren, proudly supporting them in their academic pursuits, athletic accomplishments, and the growth of their own families. Elizabeth had a gift for making everyone feel welcomed and valued. She believed deeply in the goodness of people and approached every relationship with kindness, compassion, and grace.
A longtime resident of Upton for more than 65 years, Elizabeth built lasting friendships and strong community ties. She especially cherished gathering family, friends, and neighbors around her table each Sunday for large home-cooked meals filled with laughter, conversation, and connection. Those gatherings became treasured traditions and a reflection of the joy she found in caring for others.
Elizabeth was an avid fan of the Boston Celtics and Boston Red Sox and had been a talented softball and volleyball player herself during her younger years in Upton. She carried through life with a wonderful sense of humor, a strong sense of purpose, and a smile that brightened every room.
Professionally, Elizabeth worked as a manager at Waters Corporation for more than 20 years, where colleagues remembered her as hardworking, dedicated, and truly unforgettable. She valued the friendships she built there and often spoke fondly of the memories she shared with coworkers. Before Waters, she managed local supermarkets including Big D, Big G, and Rico’s, where she was equally admired by customers and colleagues alike.
Even after retirement, Elizabeth remained active and engaged, working at Dick Kelly’s Farmstand on Route 140 in Upton. She loved mentoring younger employees and chatting with customers throughout each growing season.
Her passion for cooking began as a teenager while working after school at Toscano’s Italian Market in Worcester, where she learned Italian-style cooking from mentors Anna M. Toscano and Gasper M. “Scoops” Oliveri — skills and traditions she carried proudly throughout her life.
She was predeceased by her siblings Ben, John, and Dorothy.
Elizabeth is survived by her four children: Frank and his daughters Casey and Jodi; Jeanne and her husband Frank Caccavelli and their children Francis and Isabella; John and his wife Gai and their children Anne and Maximilian; and Lisa and her husband Kevin Oxley.
Her love of family, community, food, laughter, and friendship leaves behind a legacy that will continue through all who knew and loved her.
Calling hours will be held from 4:30 PM to 6:30 PM on Sunday, May 31st at the Pickering & Son Upton Funeral Home, located at 45 Main Street in Upton.
Her funeral service and burial at Lakeview Cemetery in Upton will be held privately with her family.
