Maureen (Rafferty) Linell

Maureen A. (Rafferty) Linell, 81, a beloved member of the Boylston community, passed away peacefully at home on October 2, 2024, surrounded by her loved ones.

Born to Owen and Margaret (Sullivan) Rafferty, Maureen was raised in Worcester before marrying Kenneth E. Linell on November 11, 1967. Together, they moved to Boylston, where they raised their family and became active participants in their community.

Maureen is survived by her devoted husband, Ken; her children, Kenneth E. Linell Jr. of Boylston and Jennifer A. Linell of Cary, NC; her sister and best friend, Anne Marie Rafferty-DiPierro of Shrewsbury; her brother, James T. Rafferty of Newport Beach, California; two nephews she was especially close to, Thomas Rafferty and his wife Morgan, Joseph Rafferty and his wife Karol; other extended family members and many friends. She was predeceased by her parents, stepfather Vincent DeFeudis, and brother-in-law Patrick DiPierro.

Professionally, Maureen thrived as independent business consultant and sales and marketing director for various media publications, with a special fondness for her work with New England Living magazine. Her career allowed her to combine her creativity with business. She loved traveling and fostering connections with people throughout the region.

Maureen's commitment to her community was profound. She dedicated herself to uplifting others. Maureen served on the Board of the YWCA of Central Massachusetts where she led a capital campaign that benefited over 10,000 women and their families each year. She marched for equal rights, partnered with families through Habitat for Humanity, and worked tirelessly as the president of the Boylston Public Library Foundation, believing that books could open doors for everyone.

Beyond her professional and volunteer work, Maureen was a city girl who grew to love nature. She enjoyed roaming Tower Hill and growing her own flowers and vegetables. Perfect summer afternoons were spent on the sailboat with Ken, soaking up the sun and reading their books. Winter days were filled with good food, laughter, and watching the Patriots and the Celtics with good friends. Maureen's life was one of love and advocacy. She will be deeply missed.

 A period of visitation will be held Friday, October 11th from 12:00 noon to 12:30 pm, followed by her celebration of Christian Burial funeral Mass at 12:30 pm in St. John’s Church, 40 Temple Street. In lieu of flowers: memorial remembrances honoring her legacy, can be made to the Boylston Public Library, 695 Main Street Boylston, 01505. The MERCADANTE FUNERAL HOME & CHAPEL, 370 Plantation St is honored to assist the family.