Elizabeth Ann (Murphy) Pastore

Elizabeth Ann (Murphy) Pastore, 85 years, died peacefully surrounded by her family at the University of Massachusetts Medical Center on Friday, February 16, 2018. Betty was a lifelong resident of Worcester. She was the daughter of the late M. Joseph Murphy and Margaret V. (Sullivan) Murphy. A graduate of Classical High School and the Salters Secretarial School, Betty worked for the Mutual Trust Insurance Company.

Betty has been a devoted, loving, hardworking wife, mother and grandmother for 63 years. Betty's greatest joy was time spent with her family, especially helping to care for and enjoy her grandchildren on 'Gramma and Grampa days'; as well as beaming with pride at countless ballgames and dance recitals. Betty was an accomplished singer, performing with the Worcester Chorus, Shauris Chorale and at various churches. She performed locally at Mechanics Hall as well as in New York City's Carnegie Hall, in Mexico and across Europe. She loved to play the piano and accordion, able to play requests by ear without sheet music, bringing joy and song to family gatherings. Blessed with a sharp mind, Betty excelled at trivia, quiz shows and the daily crossword. Betty gave many years of volunteer service to Gates Lane School with the PTO, as a reading aide and especially working alongside her dear friend Jeanne Cariglia; both forever celebrated by author and former student Jarrett Krosoczka in the children's book series Lunch Lady. A devout Catholic, she was a longtime parishioner of Our Lady of the Angels Parish. Betty's faith brought her great comfort and joy throughout her life.

Betty is survived by her husband Matteo J., her three children; Elizabeth Cruz and her husband Andy of Worcester, Joseph and his wife Kathleen of Charlton, James and his wife Rita of North Attleboro, her eight beloved and cherished grandchildren; Melissa and Ryan Cruz; Matthew, Kevin and Kyle Pastore; Meagan, Emily and Michael Pastore; and many nieces and nephews. Betty was predeceased by her sister Rita Doyle and brother James Murphy.

Family and friends are invited to honor, remember and celebrate her life at the Callahan, Fay & Caswell Funeral Home, 61 Myrtle Street Worcester on Friday, February 23, 2018 from 10:00 AM until 11:30 AM, followed by a funeral Mass in Our Lady of the Angels Church, 1222 Main St. Worcester at 12:00 PM. The burial will be held privately.