Betty Jean (Therrien) Gressak

Douglas- Betty Jean (Therrien) Gressak, 83, passed away peacefully on Monday, October 7, 2024. Her husband of 57 years, Anthony J. Gressak died on May 23, 2018.

         She is survived by 2 brothers-in-law, Stephen C. Gressak of Douglas and Daniel J. Gressak and his wife Sandra of Bristol, CT; a sister-in-law, Rosanna B. Greene and Al Senecal of Mendon, many nieces, nephews, great-nieces, great-nephews, cousins and friends. Born in Whitinsville on July 4, 1941 she was the daughter of Wanda (Prybyla) and Edward A. Therrien and lived in Douglas all her life.

         Mrs. Gressak worked as the Coordinator - Graduate (Physician) Medical Education for Saint Vincent’s Hospital for 33 years until her retirement in 2003. Betty Jean always said that this was the best job ever, it allowed her to observe many young physicians on their journey through the world of medicine, and was a wonderful experience. She previously worked as a secretary at the former Hayward-Schuster Woolen Mill in Douglas and the former Whitin Machine Works in Whitinsville.

Betty Jean graduated from Douglas Memorial High School, class of 1959 where she was a cheerleader, and played softball and basketball. She graduated from Salter Secretarial School in 1960.

         In her younger years, Betty Jean enjoyed riding horses, which she was introduced to and taught by her father when she was just 3 years old. She enjoyed cooking, reading, and entertaining family and friends, especially at the "Res". She and Tony spent many wonderful winters in Ft. Myers Beach and Longboat Key, Florida. She was an avid Red Sox and N. E. Patriots fan, and loved college basketball, whether attending games or watching games on TV. She was a lifelong member of St. Denis Church.

         Her funeral Mass will be held on Friday, October 18th at 11 AM in St. Denis Church, 23 Manchaug Rd., Douglas. Cremation burial will follow in St. Denis Cemetery. A calling hour will be held prior to her Mass in Jackman Funeral Home, 7 Mechanic St., Douglas from 9:30- 10:30 AM. Donations in Betty Jean’s memory may be made to the Douglas Ambulance Fund, PO Box 22, Douglas MA 01516, or to Abby’s House, 52 High St., Worcester MA 01609. To leave a condolence message for her family please visit: www.Jackmanfuneralhomes.com

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