Frances M. Pumfrey

Frances M. Pumfrey (Berry), age 90, of Stoneham, Massachusetts, passed away peacefully on Thursday, January 1 surrounded by her family.

Frances was a woman whose beauty began within and naturally flowed outward. It was seen in her carefully chosen outfits, felt in the laughter that filled every room she entered, and known in the joy she shared so generously.

She believed dinner was simply a path to dessert, dancing the perfect ending to a good night, and love the surest way to a good life. Her thoughtfulness was second nature, whether passing along her Boston Globe to neighbors or leaving small goodie bags on doorknobs for those who were unwell. She had a gift for reminding others to try again, laugh again, and love again. She lived with a joyful spirit while always remaining grounded in strong moral character.

She leaves behind her two daughters, whom she lovingly called “My Girls,” Brenda MacDonald of Seabrook, New Hampshire, and Sheila MacDonald of Wilmington, Massachusetts, as well as her son-in-law, Tom MacDonald who shared years of family get-togethers.

Her greatest happiness came from doting on her grandchildren, Colin, Paige, Alex, and Ryan, through whose eyes she experienced life anew.

Frances cherished her sister, Beverly Beattie, and the meaningful conversations they shared, often accompanied by their mutual love of old songs.

She held a close and loving bond with her niece, Beverly McGovern, marked by laughter and fun, and remained deeply engaged in the lives and accomplishments of her many nieces and nephews. She also delighted in long drives and delicious lunches with her longtime friend, Frank Durgan.

Frances was predeceased by her mother, Beatrice Berry (Schwartz), and her beloved sisters, June Bicknell and Marie Cope.

Her legacy lives on in the laughter she inspired, the love she gave freely, and the joy she brought to all who knew her.

Funeral Services are private and in the care of the McDonald-Finnegan-Anderson Funeral Home, Stoneham.