Mildred "Millie" Saari

Mildred “Millie” (Lenis) Saari, a beloved wife, mother, grandmother, sister, and aunt, passed away unexpectedly on November 12, 2025, in a tragic accident. She was 78 years old.

Born and raised in Worcester, Massachusetts, Millie was the daughter of the late Vasilike “Bessie” (Ntoutsis) and George M. Lenis. A proud graduate of Commerce High School, she continued her education at Salter College and went on to enjoy a long career as a medical secretary, where her professionalism and kindness touched many lives.

For 59 years, Millie was the devoted wife of her loving husband, Roy W. Saari. Together, they built a beautiful life centered on family, love, and unwavering support. Millie’s greatest joy was her family. She was a gentle, generous soul whose love knew no bounds - especially for her cherished grandsons, whom she adored and celebrated every day.

Millie leaves behind a legacy of warmth and love carried on by her children: her son, Keith Saari and his partner César Perez of New York City, and her daughter, Mia (Saari) Conway of Oxford, MA. She will be profoundly missed by her grandsons, Nicholas George Conway and Matthew James Conway, both of Oxford.

She is also survived by her sister, Evelyn Lenis, and her longtime partner, Michael Marshall of Worcester; her brothers, Mark Lenis, Charles Lenis and his wife Sarah (and their children Ariane (Bill) Salmon and Laura Lenis), and John Lenis and his wife Teena (and their children Christina (Nick) Lenis-Neofitidis and Catherine Lenis), all of Worcester. She also leaves her niece, Debbie Shilapa and her husband, Michael, son-in-law Steven Conway, and many great-nieces, great-nephews and extended family. Millie shared an especially close bond with her beloved aunts, Thalia McGrath and Helen Pilitsis.

Millie was a woman of many talents and passions. She was an extraordinary hostess and cook whose dishes became family traditions, and she delighted in sharing her love of food with others. She had a deep appreciation for art, crafts, and decorating, bringing beauty and creativity into everything she touched. She found joy in life’s simple pleasures—watching old movies, taking long scenic drives, savoring a warm cup of coffee, and tending to her beloved garden. These quiet moments reflected her gentle spirit and the beauty she nurtured in everything around her. Her love for animals, especially dogs, was another reflection of her gentle and caring nature.

Above all, Millie will be remembered for her kindness, generosity, and the love she poured into her family and friends. Her spirit will live on in the hearts of all who knew her.

A calling hour will be held Tuesday, November 18th from 10-10:45am at St. Spyridon Greek Orthodox Cathedral, 102 Russell St, Worcester, MA. A funeral service will begin at 11am. Burial will be private for the family. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Millie’s memory to the ASPCA or an animal shelter of your choice, honoring her lifelong love of animals.