Obituary: Jacqueline M. LaBaire, mother of Father Steven M. LaBaire

UPTON – Jacqueline M. (Fleurant) LaBaire of Upton, died peacefully surrounded by family and friends Oct. 21. Her husband, Philip Michael LaBaire, of 56 years, died in 2017.

Jacqueline, “Jackie” LaBaire was born on June 3, 1936, in Milford, the only child of Armand and Georgine (Lapierre) Fleurant. Raised in Upton, she attended Upton Public Schools, later graduating from St. Mary’s High School in Milford in 1954. She worked as a secretary to the Dean of Students at Clark University and for 20 years as a director of personnel at the Fenwal Company in Ashland.

Mrs. LaBaire leaves her son, Father Steven M. LaBaire, pastor of St. Gabriel the Archangel Parish in Upton, as well as cousins in both Canada and in the United States.

Mrs. LaBaire lived a full life. She enjoyed gardening, traveling with her husband and son, as well as spending time with her family in Quebec. Her faith gave her great strength. During the last years of her life, as she struggled with dementia, her home in Upton as well as dining out with friends were a source of great comfort to her. She will be deeply missed.

A funeral Mass will be celebrated at 10:30 a.m. on Saturday at St.Gabriel the Archangel Church, 151 Mendon Street, Upton. Father LaBaire will preside. Following cremation, a private burial will take place at Lakeview Cemetery, Upton.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in her memory to: St. Gabriel the Archangel Parish, 151 Mendon Street, Upton, MA 01568.