Winnie Mae Wentworth

“Well probably…” Winnie from time to time could spin a good tale. The tale of her life is nothing less than valiant for a number of reasons. One year before the Great Depression, Winnie Mae Wentworth was born October 26, 1928, to Mildred and George Wentworth in Winchester, NH. Winnie passed away on April 14, 2025, at Charlene Manor in Greenfield. Aged 96. Raised in the Rabbit Hollow section of Winchester, she was the oldest of eight children growing up without excess, any of them. Yet the closeness of the siblings prevailed, and a colorful life was created. She has one surviving sister, Hazel Cole and two surviving brothers, Calvin (Verna) Lang and Kenneth (Dawn) Lang. She was predeceased by her parents, and sisters, Marie and Eleanor, brothers, Paul, James and Russell. Winnie leaves two daughters, Darreen Martin and Frances (James) Garanin. Two granddaughters, Amy (Vlad) Benoit and Genevieve Garanin. Two great grandchildren, Denzel and Sonya Benoit. And many nieces and nephews. Winnie went to school in Winchester, NH and then took courses at Greenfield Community College. Education growing up was a luxury and anyone’s accomplishments were a reason for her to celebrate. She enjoyed attending graduations of many family members and especially the college ceremonies of her granddaughters. She worked at Carl’s Restaurant in Greenfield for 20 years and Koch’s Grocery for a short time. She then worked for Millers Falls Tool Company and Franklin County Public Hospital. For a single woman in her time, it was a great accomplishment to improve her career. In her retirement years when her children were no longer at home, she pursued employment that pleased her. She loved working with the children at The Drop in Center. Along with volunteering to read in the public schools. She last worked for Foster’s Supermarket next door to where she lived. That job brought her community and socialization. She was always happy to see family and friends there. Winnie was a member of the First Baptist Church of Greenfield for more than 50 years. She taught Sunday School for many years, was a deacon, a member of the Women's Fellowship, served on pastoral search committees and sang in the choir. She also was active in the state association and participated in journeys to Green Lakes, WI to enjoy conferences. Her family attending church with her brought her joy. She was a member of the League of Women’s Voters and never missed voting. She was not afraid to speak her mind in the political arena. Or for that matter most anywhere. Winnie never had a driver’s license, but she didn’t seem to need one. She walked everywhere! Pretty common to see her around town toting a bag or two. With family and friends, she loved going to Ogunquit and Wells Beach, Maine, for vacation. Numerous bus trips allowed her to visit places with family and friends. The Grand Canyon was especially exciting and NYC at Christmas to see the Rockettes was a favorite. She loved to play cards with family and friends which usually got rambunctious. When she resided at Elm Terrace, she was President of the Tenant’s Association, called Bingo, attended the exercise class and assisted many friends there with their needs. She was a friend to be depended on. One of her greatest joys was being a part of raising her granddaughters. The girls had endless joy at sleepovers, playing dress up, baking and playing games. There wasn’t anything she wouldn’t do to make them happy. Winnie was a dedicated blood donor and decades ago arranged for her body to be donated to science. Winnie would approve and appreciate your time to recall your paths crossing and to express your love and appreciation to those you are lucky to have in your lives. A Celebration of Life will be on Monday May 26, 2025 commencing at 11am at Bernardston Kiwanis Pavilion, located at 835 Brattleboro Road Bernardston. Lunch will be served. Donations may be made to the Children’s Advocacy Center of Franklin County. http://cacfranklinnq.org/ in her memory. Services are under the care of Cheshire Family Funeral Home, Chapel, and Crematories. www.cheshirefamilyfh.com.

Tributes

Winnie Mae Wentworth

October 26, 1928 - April 14, 2025