Roger Michael Walsh

Roger Michael Walsh, 67, of Norwood, passed away peacefully on January 13, 2026, in the comfort of his home. Born on June 20, 1958, in Norwood, he was the beloved son of the late Roger F. Walsh and Mary E. Walsh (Petrie).

Roger joined the Lifeworks family in the spring of 1983 when he moved into a shared apartment in Norwood. Later that same year, in November 1983, he achieved a milestone that would define the course of his life when he moved into his own apartment on Nahatan Street, managed by the Norwood Housing Authority. Roger made that apartment truly his home and proudly lived there independently for more than 40 years, a testament to his determination, self-reliance, and love for his hometown.

Coming from a large family of twelve children, Roger was deeply rooted in the Norwood community. He was supported by the Lifeworks Individual Supports Program for over 42 years, where he built a rich and meaningful life surrounded by friends, neighbors, and dedicated staff. Roger took immense pride in his independence and in the accomplishments he achieved throughout his life. He often credited the education he received at the Perkins School for the Blind for providing him with the skills and confidence to succeed.

Roger held several jobs in the Norwood area, including working as a houseman at the Sheraton Four Points Hotel for over ten years. He had a wide circle of friends and cherished their daily gatherings, first at the old Friendly's on Nahatan Street, and later at Dunkin' Donuts across the street, often alongside his best friend, John O'Connell.

An accomplished and enthusiastic athlete, Roger led a dynamic and active life. He was an outstanding bowler who participated in numerous leagues at the Norwood Bowling Alley. He played softball for many years, was an excellent basketball player, and proudly participated in a variety of Special Olympics sports programs through Lifeworks. The highlight of his athletic career came in 1989, when he scored 40 points in the State Finals to lead The Arc of South Norfolk team to a stunning upset victory over the number-one-seeded team from Springfield, earning the State Championship in basketball. Roger was also a devoted sports fan, passionately following all four Boston professional teams as well as Notre Dame.

Of all Roger's accomplishments, his greatest legacy was his tireless advocacy for individuals with disabilities, including those with developmental disabilities and visual impairments. In partnership with Lifeworks, Roger spent many years participating in a community education program in the Sharon Public Schools, where he educated fifth-grade students about the challenges, needs, and successes of people with disabilities. Through his openness and honesty, he helped foster understanding, respect, and inclusion.

As a proud member of the Lifeworks Self-Advocacy group, Our Club, for over 30 years, Roger served in leadership roles including President and officer for numerous terms. He also served multiple terms on the Lifeworks Human Rights Committee and proudly represented his peers as a member of The Arc of Massachusetts Board of Directors for several two-year terms. Roger was always eager to share his story publicly, speaking candidly about the challenges he faced and the successes he achieved, inspiring countless individuals along the way.

Predeceased by his beloved parents, Roger and Mary Walsh (Petrie), and by his siblings Gerard Walsh, Stephen Walsh, Joyce Tenanty.

He is lovingly survived by his siblings Karen Brown and her husband Stephen of Florida; William Walsh of Norwood; Paul Walsh of Foxboro; Janet Walsh of North Attleboro; Theda Walsh of Norwood; Martin Walsh and his wife Shirley of Wrentham; Mary Ellen Miethe and her husband David of Walpole; Michael Walsh of Norwood; He also leaves, to cherish his loving memory, his brother - in- law James Tenanty of Norwood, his sister- in - law Susan Walsh (Aitken) of North Attleborough, numerous nieces, nephews, extended family members, friends, and the Lifeworks community who will forever cherish his memory.

Roger's life was one of perseverance, independence, friendship, and advocacy. He will be remembered not only for what he achieved, but for the lives he touched and the barriers he helped break for generations to come.

Friends and family are welcome to gather and remember the love and friendship Roger shared with so many on Friday, January 30th from 10:30 AM - 11:00AM at St. Catherine of Siena Parish located at 549 Washington Street Norwood.

A Mass of Christian Burial in celebration of Roger's life will follow at 11AM. Interment will be held at Highland Cemetery 320 Winter St, Norwood, MA 02062.

As an expression of sympathy, in lieu of flowers donations maybe made in Roger's loving Memory to Lifeworks at www.lifeworksarc.org

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