1942 - 2025
Born in Watertown on September 23, 1936, Bernadette—known affectionately as Bernie, or “Birdie” to her Leo—was the daughter of the late Ferdinand and Christina (Della Posta) Santamaria. She spent her early years in Watertown and was a graduate of Watertown High School.
In recent years, Bernadette made her home in Medway, having been a resident there for the past two years, after many years spent on Cape Cod, most recently in Centerville. Professionally, she worked for several years as an administrative assistant in higher education at Brandeis University, where she was respected for her reliability and attention to detail.
Bernadette had a deeply creative spirit. She enjoyed doing all kinds of arts and crafts and was especially gifted as a painter and jewelry maker, talents that continue through her family. Known for her sharp humor and lightning-quick comebacks, she had a way of filling a room with laughter. She wore her heart on her sleeve, and her expressions often spoke louder than words. Above all, she loved her family fiercely and treasured time spent together, especially moments shared with her grandchildren and great-grandchildren.
Along with her husband Leo, Bernadette is survived by her son Steven Speranza and his wife Lisa of Swampscott, and her daughter Linda O’Brien and her husband William of Medway. She also leaves behind five grandchildren, Christina Carlisle and her husband Eamonn, Michael O’Brien, Zachary O’Brien, Marissa Speranza, and Anthony Speranza and his wife Monica, and four great-grandchildren, Adrian, Kennedy, Rory and Monroe, as well as many nieces and nephews.
She was predeceased by her siblings Mary Vacca, Peter Santamaria, and Elaine Covino.
Relatives and friends are invited to attend calling hours on Wednesday, December 17 from 9 – 10:30 a.m. in the Ginley Crowley Funeral Home, 3 Barber St. in Medway, followed by a funeral Mass at St. Joseph Church, 151 Village St. in Medway at 11 a.m. Burial will follow in Newton Cemetery at a later date.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in her memory to the American Heart Association.
