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Arlene McCrea Obituary
NORTHAMPTON, MA - Arlene M. McCrea, 94, passed away peacefully on Friday, October 3, 2025. She was born in Northbridge MA on November 27, 1930, to the late Eli and Rose Bruso. She married Joseph F. McCrea in 1952, and they had seven children. After the youngest started school, Arlene returned to college at UMASS graduating Suma Cum Laude and earned her master's degree in Comparative Literature. She was one of the first graduates of UWW (University Without Walls). She was an adjunct professor at UMASS Amherst. Throughout her career, Arlene truly enjoyed teaching and guiding her students.
In retirement, she and Joe relocated to Melbourne Florida for 23 years and enjoyed travelling abroad and spending time with friends and family. They eventually returned to the Northampton area to be closer to their children.
Arlene was a devoted Catholic, avid reader, loved cooking and will be remembered for sharing books and articles and her gourmet meals. Her kitchen was always a place for lively conversations and delicious food. She especially enjoyed watching and discussing football games. She touched the lives of many with her generosity and passion for life.
Arlene was predeceased by her husband Joseph (2022) and her brother John Bruso. She is survived by her brother, Robert and her children Bill, Nancy, Cindy, Lisa, Susie, Tish and Bob, and their respective spouses.
She is also survived by her grandchildren Christopher, Courtney, Chelsey, Ryan and Reid and great grandchildren Blanan, Addison, Savannah, Opal and Charlotte. She also leaves several nieces and nephews and many lifelong friends.
Friends and family are invited to gather to Celebrate the Liturgy of Christian Burial for Arlene at Our Lady of the Valley, 33 Adams St., Easthampton on Wednesday, October 8, 2025 at 11:00 A.M. Arlene will be buried next to the love of her life, Joe, at the Agawam Veterans Cemetery in a private ceremony. The family would like to thank Arlene's caregivers and the staff of Linda Manor for the compassionate care they provided in her final days.
Charitable donations in her memory can be made to: Our Lady of the Valley Church, 33 Adams Street, Easthampton, MA. 01027 or Forbes Library, 20 West Street, Northampton, MA 01060
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Arlene McCrea
4 Entries
Robina L Glaszcz
October 19, 2025
MY SINCEREST CONDOLENCES.. GOD BLESS YOU ALL.. YOU HAD THE BEST PARENTS
YOU ARE AN EXTRAORDINARY FAMILY, NOTHING BUT LAUGHTER ROBINA L GLASZCZ
Barbara Johnson
October 7, 2025
Arlene was a wonderful spirit. I enjoyed taking a class at UMass and working with her on a paper investigating the curiously varied images of the christ child in Renaissance paintings. Fond memories of a curious and wonderful open minded woman.
Sharon Jones
October 5, 2025
My thoughts go out to the entire McCrea family and Bruso family. She was the best Aunt I could´ve ever had!!! Love to you all
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Funeral services provided by:
Ahearn Funeral Home - Northampton783 Bridge Road, Northampton, MA 01060
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