Mrs. Lorita M. Bosworth

Lorita “Rete” Bosworth passed away peacefully on October 11th after a brief illness. Born a first-generation Italian, Rete grew up in the Morningside section of Pittsfield where the sights, sounds, and aromas of Italy were everywhere. She entered first grade at Crane School speaking only Italian! Rete graduated from Pittsfield High School in 1950 where she was a varsity cheerleader and earned an academic scholarship to Becker Junior College. As she was completing her degree at Becker, she met the man who would become her husband, partner, and true love – Tom Bosworth. They married in 1954 and became the first family to live in the Lenox Community Center with Tom as the resident director. This is where they began their family and Rete’s record of community service. Rete embraced motherhood as she raised her 3 children – Tim, Shain, and Elissa. She assisted Tom with programs at the Community Center which evolved into a hub of activities for the entire town of Lenox. Amidst the basketball games, skating parties, ski lessons, and various social events, Rete raised their children, taught CCD at St. Ann’s Church, and spent glorious, peaceful summers at Cape Cod with Tom and the kids. In 1969, the family moved to their home outside the center of Lenox. Life was still busy, but Rete and Tom were able to pursue lifelong friendships and hobbies. They helped form a social tennis league at Eastover that provided years of enjoyment. Rete was an accomplished tennis player and skier – both downhill and cross-country. Tom and Rete also enjoyed dancing to country music at venues around the county. Rete worked for several local physicians once her children were in school. Eventually, she took a temporary position as the town clerk in Lenox. That temporary position became an 11-year stint as the Lenox Town Clerk – a job that suited Rete’s personality and organizational skills perfectly! She retired from her position as Town Clerk in 1998 and focused on her expanding family and other passions such as needlepoint and gardening. Countless people were recipients of her thoughtful meals, needlepoint gifts, and ready assistance whenever it was needed. Her family grew to include 8 grandchildren and 15 great-grandchildren – all of whom adored their “Grammy”. Rete was a force of nature wrought into a petite body filled with endless energy. Her small physical stature masked the persistence, strength, and determination that were not to be trifled with! Yet Rete exuded love. Her strong and unwavering love helped her support Tom as his faculties faded during his last years. They were an inseparable and beautiful couple. Her love still binds her large and extended family together. She is missed, but her presence and influence will be felt forever. Rete was predeceased by her parents, Mansueto and Clelia Martinelli; her sister, Sandra; and her beloved husband, Tom. Those who remain include her brother, Peter Martinelli (Mary); her children, Tim (Marty), Shain, and Elissa; 8 grandchildren; and 15 great-grandchildren. There will be no calling hours, but the public is invited to a memorial Mass on Thursday, October 17 at 11:00 AM at St. Vincent de Paul Church in Lenox Dale. The public is also invited to a social hour at St. Ann’s Parish Center in Lenox after the graveside service. In lieu of flowers, Rete’s family will appreciate donations in her name for Saint Vincent de Paul Church and the Lenox Library Association. These donations can be directed to the Roche Funeral Home, 120 Main Street, Lenox, MA 01240.

Mrs. Lorita M. Bosworth

January 29, 1933 - October 11, 2024