Rose Marie (Gravallese) Lewis, 87, a beloved matriarch and cherished friend, passed away peacefully at her home in Pembroke on April 22, surrounded by her loving family. Rose Marie was the devoted wife of the late Richard J. Lewis, with whom she shared a deep and enduring love.
Born on August 5, 1937, in Boston, Rose Marie was the daughter of the late Charles M. and Rose (Ciano) Gravallese. She spent her formative years in East Boston, where she cultivated a strong sense of community and family. Rose Marie was a dedicated bookkeeper in the real estate field, a role that allowed her to support her family and ensure that her children received a quality education. Her unwavering commitment to her children’s success was a testament to her strength and independence.
A woman of remarkable warmth and kindness, Rose Marie made friends wherever she went. Her strong family ties were evident in her relationships with her children and grandchildren, whom she adored. Rose Marie had a passion for travel, particularly to Italy, where she embraced her heritage and created lasting memories with her loved ones. Her strong Catholic faith was a guiding force in her life, and she was an active member of Sacred Heart Church in East Boston.
Rose Marie is survived by her loving children: Richard J. Lewis Jr. and his wife Donna of Colorado, Robert Lewis and his wife Catherine of Connecticut, and Renee Reardon and her longtime companion Thomas Robbins of Plymouth. She is also survived by her brother Charles Gravallese Jr. and his wife Nancy of Florida. Rose Marie was predeceased by her sisters, Phyllis Balba and Carolyn Costello. She was a cherished grandmother to Nicholas Lewis and his wife Zara, Ryan Lewis, Gabriella Reardon, Alex Lewis, and Jonathan Reardon, who will carry her memory in their hearts.
Visiting hours will be held at the Cartmell-Davis Life Celebration Funeral Home, 619 State Road., Plymouth, on Sunday, April 27, from 2 to 5 p.m. A funeral Mass will be celebrated on Monday, April 28, at 11 a.m. at Sacred Heart Church, 45 Brooks St., East Boston. Burial will follow at Woodlawn Cemetery in Everett.
In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that memorial donations be made in Rose Marie’s name to Caring Hospice or the Alzheimer’s Association.
Rose Marie Lewis will be remembered for her loving spirit, her dedication to family, and her unwavering faith. She leaves behind a legacy of love that will continue to inspire all who knew her.