Evelyn Jean Charest

"South Hadley, Mrs. Evelyn (Colgan) Charest, 102, died peacefully in her sleep surrounded by family and friends on October 11th, 2015. She was born in South Hadley July 25, 1912 and celebrated her 102nd birthday this year. She was the daughter of William and Jeannie (Kemp) Colgan. Evelyn was a member of St. Theresa's parish in South Hadley and was an active member of the Rosary Altar Society. She was born and raised in South Hadley, MA and attended South Hadley Schools, Graduating from Holyoke High Evening School. She danced in her father's Scottish dance group, The Lothian Trio, in shows throughout New England and New York City. She belonged to the HGL Bridge club. She was well known throughout the community and by friends and family for her warm smile and perhaps best known for her magic with food. She worked as a pie maker at Ducthland Farms in West Springfield and at Mount Holyoke College as well as being a home maker. Survivors include her daughters Jeanne O'Connor, and Barbara Dupre and her husband Raymond of So. Hadley, MA as well as five grandchildren, 14 Great Grandchildren, 1 Great, Great grandchild and several nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her husband, H.E.Jack Charest, daughter Marion Bankus, of Bossier City, LA, brothers Howard Colgan of Willamansett and William Colgan of So. Hadley. The family would like to thank Wingate at South Hadley and Hospice Services of Western Mass for the compassionate care given to Evelyn. A Funeral Mass will be on Saturday, October 18th at 11:00 a.m. at St. Theresa's Church. Burial will follow in Notre Dame Cemetery. A calling hour from 9:30 to 10:30 at Beers and Story South Hadley Funeral Home, 646 Newton St., will precede the Mass. Please visit www.beersandstory.com to leave an online condolence. "