Clara M. Dooley

ATHOL - Clara M. (Chaisson) Dooley, 87, of 160 Brattle St., Athol, died suddenly at Quabbin Valley Healthcare on Monday, May 19, 2008 with her beloved husband at her side. Born in Athol, MA, on April 16, 1921, she was the youngest of fourteen children of Peter D. and Catherine (Mallet) Chaisson. Clara graduated from Athol High School with the Class of 1939 and attended many reunions with her former classmates. She was known for her quick typing despite her long red fingernails, her tap-dancing ability and beautiful singing voice. She sang and danced in minstrel shows during World War II and spent many Saturday nights dancing to the Big Bands with the love of her life, Ralph Dooley. She was a devoted wife, mother and grandmother and also took care of extended family members over the years. Her holiday meals and special desserts were enjoyed by all. The Dooley's were married in 1940 at Our Lady Immaculate Church and resided in Newton, MA for many years before returning to Athol in 1983. While in Newton Clara volunteered for several church, school and Girl Scout groups while raising her daughter. Later she worked for Lasell College retiring in 1982. They summered at White Pond in Athol in the cottage Ralph built for them for much of their married life. Besides Ralph, her devoted husband of sixty-eight years, she leaves her loving daughter and son-in-law, Patricia and Richard Ray of Athol, three grandsons: Richard Ray, Jr. of New Salem, Christopher Ray and his wife Cynthia of S. Deerfield and Robert Ray of Hyannis; four great-grandchildren, three great-great grandchildren, and many nieces and nephews. She is also survived by a sister, Gertrude Lagimoniere of Athol. She was predeceased by three sisters: Malvina "Mae" Rocheleau, Lucille DuBois and Lillian Kelly; also by two brothers: Omer Chaisson and Edgar "Jack" Chaisson. She was a kind and good woman and will be missed by all who knew her. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held Thursday, May 22, 2008, at 11:00 a.m. at Our Lady Immaculate Church, 192 School St., Athol. Burial will follow in Silver Lake Cemetery. Calling hours will be held Thursday, May 22, 2008 from 9:30 - 10:30 a.m. in the J. Edward Murphy Funeral Home, 137 Main St., Athol. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made in her memory to a charity of your choice. For more information or to sign our online guest book please visit www.murphysfuneralhome.com. J. Edward Murphy Funeral Home, 137 Main St., Athol, is directing arrangements. $(document).ready(function(){ });