Charlene O’Driscoll, 60, of Southborough, Massachusetts, passed away peacefully at her home on Tuesday, February 25, 2025, after a lengthy illness.
Born to Joseph and Ann Brady (Favreau), Charlene grew up in Plymouth, Massachusetts, where she attended high school and made lifelong friends. Her life was full of family, including her three brothers, Terrence, Brian, and Shawn, and friends.
Charlene is survived by her devoted husband, Michael O’Driscoll, and four stepchildren; her son and daughter-in-law, Patrick and Christina Corcoran of Millbury, Massachusetts; and her daughter and son-in-law, Lindsay and Greg DiMarzio of Templeton, Massachusetts. She was the beloved “Nanny” to her cherished grandchildren and step-grandchildren: Ayla, Braiden, Callan, Delaney, Cora, Michael and Chloe. Charlene also leaves behind her parents, Joseph and Ann Brady of Plymouth, and her three brothers. She was adored by her many nieces, nephews, cousins, extended family, and countless dear friends. She was predeceased by her late husband, David Vandawalker, with whom she shared more than 10 years of marriage.
Charlene had an adventurous spirit, finding beauty in everyday moments and in all aspects of life. An avid reader, she especially enjoyed travel novels and cookbooks, which inspired her journeys and passion for cooking and entertaining. Whether playing the hostess or preparing meals to bring to family and friends, Charlene always cooked with love and sought to make every experience unique and special. She explored the world, with a special fondness for Ireland, as well as many destinations across Europe and Asia, making lasting friendships along the way.
Above all, Charlene treasured her family and those she considered family—friends, co-workers, and all with whom she shared a deep connection. Her kindness, generosity, and adventurous heart touched the lives of many, from her beloved customers at the restaurants where she worked to the grandchildren with whom she created cherished memories.
Charlene never let the illness she faced slow her down. Over the last eight years, she continued to travel and enjoy life to the fullest. She went through it all with unbelievable strength, a smile on her face, and – in true Charlene fashion – never a hair out of place. Charlene’s presence will be deeply missed, but she will live on in the memories she was so enthusiastic about creating with those she loved and in the memories of all of those she touched with her kindness and generosity.
Flowers may be sent or donations may be made in Charlene’s memory to the Amyloidosis Foundation (https://www.amyloidosis.org/)
Relatives and friends are invited to visit with Charlene’s family between 2:00-5:00 PM on Sunday, March 2, 2025 at the BRITTON-SHREWSBURY FUNERAL HOME, 648 Main Street, Shrewsbury. Her funeral Mass will be celebrated at 10 AM on Monday, March 3, 2025 at St. Mary’s Church, 640 Main Street, Shrewsbury, burial will be held privately for her family at Mountain View Cemetery, Shrewsbury, MA.
(Photo and Obituary via Britton Funeral Home)
