Eileen M. Tefft

Eileen M. (Costello) Tefft, 78, of Worcester, passed away peacefully Monday, November 10th 2008 in her home surrounded by family after a long battle with cancer.

Eileen's husband of 51 years, Robert E. Tefft, Sr. passed away in July of 2005. She is survived by her devoted children: Robert E. Tefft, Jr. and his wife Cynthia of Oakham, Susan E. Stevens and her husband David of Worcester, Scott D. Tefft, and his wife Tina of Northboro, Holly A. Wilder and her partner Matt Kelley with whom she lived; a brother, John "Jack" Costello in Conn; a sister, Anna Mae Kearns in Georgia; eleven cherished grandchildren; many nieces and nephews. A son, Richard Costello; a grandson, Ryan Patrick Stevens; and a brother, Edward Costello all pre-deceased her. Eileen was born in Woonsocket, R.I., a daughter of the late Edward and Anastasia (Cullen) Costello. She graduated from Saint Francis Xavier Academy in Providence, and earned her Bachelors Degree in Urban Studies from Worcester State College in May 2007 at the age of 77. Eileen has lived in Worcester since 1969.

Eileen worked many years in the social service field as a social worker for several organizations including Independent Living before retiring 2 months ago due to her illness.

She was an active member of Adams Square Congregational Church and was involved in many of the church activities.

A devoted wife, mother, grandmother and sister. Eileen cherished the moments she spent with her family. They were her life and she enjoyed celebrating achievements, holidays, and special moments with them.

Eileen had many interests, talents and hobbies and she was always busy and involved in many activities. She was president of the Elder Advocates for 8 years at Worcester State College. She was an avid Bridge player, public speaker, a professional clown "Bubbles the Clown", she performed handwriting analysis, taught yoga, taught sign language, and graduated from Brail University with a certificate in Brail Writing. She was an avid Red Sox fan and loved to watch all her grandchildren play in their sports games. She was a crafter and had her own jewelry crafting business "Jewels by Eileen".

Her father, Edward P. Costello, was the Woonsocket, RI state representative for 10 years and was the RI Campaign Manager for President John F. Kennedy.

Eileen "Lived Well, Laughed Often, and Loved Much" and she will never be forgotten by all who met her.

Funeral services will be held Sunday, November 16th at 12:30 p.m. in the Adams Square Congregational Church, 26 Burncoat Street. After cremation burial will be held at the convenience of the family in Worcester County Memorial Park in Paxton. Friends and relatives are invited to visit with the family Friday, November 14th from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. in the MERCADANTE FUNERAL HOME & CHAPEL, 370 Plantation St. Worcester. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to: Ryan Stevens Memorial Scholarship Fund, c/o St. Peter Marian High School, 781 Grove St., Worcester, MA 01605.