Amelia E. "Terrie" (Hanson) Putnam
Northampton - Amelia E. "Terrie" (Hanson) Putnam passed away peacefully and courageously at her home, Highview in Leeds, on Saturday, September 19, 2015.
She was born August 6, 1927 in Boston, Massachusetts and grew up in Massachusetts and New Hampshire, largely in the foster care system due to family stressors. She developed her trademark spunk and determination during these years, and always remembered the encouragement and compassion of her beloved social worker, Mildred Longhenry, who became a lifelong friend and mentor.
Terrie struck out on her own as a teen and worked as a nanny, waitress and secretary before meeting her husband Walter C. Putnam and settling down in Rutland, Massachusetts where she lived for over thirty years, raising their two daughters and active in school and community causes. She cared for Walter during his chronic illness and following his death worked as a caregiver for the elderly in their homes.
In retirement she moved to Worcester and enjoyed volunteering tirelessly for Mass Senior Action Council, traveling locally and nationally with her sidekick Betty advocating for their fellow senior citizens and on behalf of economic justice and access to health care. She also was an avid member of her building's Tenants Association. She was interested in and open minded about everyone she met, and took great pleasure and pride in "rooting for the underdog". Terrie was a lifelong voracious reader, crossword puzzler and lover of good conversation.
Her husband Walter predeceased her. She leaves her daughters Ellen Putnam and Lisa Willis, their spouses Mark Dean and Jason Willis, nine grandchildren and three great- grandchildren, who will miss her good humor, pithy phrases and ability to rise to the occasion.
At her request, burial will be private. Memorial donations may be made to Rutland Free Public Library (rutlandlibrary.org) or Mass Senior Action Council (masssenioraction.org). The Ahearn Funeral Home in Northampton is in charge of arrangements.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
2 Entries
Thoughts and prayers to you and the family during this difficult time.
Shannon Moore
September 28, 2015
Dear Lisa Willis & Ellen Putnam,
I am so sorry to hear that your Mother Terrie had died
But fear not your mom will now be your guardian angel
Looking down & sending her love to you all.
Debbie ( Moisan ) Plant
September 26, 2015
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