Shrewsbury – Joseph W. LeBritton, 86, a longtime Shrewsbury resident, passed away peacefully Monday, Nov. 5, 2012 with his cherished family by his side.
Joe was born in Worcester, one of six children of the late Joseph A. and Bertha (Guertin) LeBritton. He entered St. Peter's Elementary School, graduating 12 years later from St. Peter's High School. He then entered the U.S. Navy to proudly serve his country during World War II. Upon returning to Worcester, he entered Boston University earning his bachelor's degree in English and Public Relations. Joe later returned to school to further his education earning his Master's Degree in Education from Worcester State College.
In 1951 Joe married Mary C. Murphy who became his devoted wife and best friend for the next 61-plus years.
Joe began his employed years working in the production department of Rockwood Sprinkler for 10 years. He then took a position as a high school business teacher for the town of Northbridge, retiring 25 years later. He also did painting and wallpapering.
Joe is survived by his wife, Mary; his four children, Joseph A. LeBritton and his wife Darla of Dripping Springs, Texas, Jane M. Choiniere and her husband David of North Hampton, NH, Diann M. DiBenedetto and her husband Pasquale of Shrewsbury, and Katherine A. Boulanger of Shrewsbury; and his two sisters, Christina Hebert and Bertha Fleming both of Worcester. He also leaves three granddaughters, Lauren Senecal and her husband Richard, Jennifer and Angela DiBenedetto, and many nieces, nephews, and friends. A brother, Louis LeBritton, and two sisters, Marjorie Daviau and Annette Cheney, predeceased him.
In his younger years, Joe served his church actively as a CCD teacher and parish council member. Joe was also a member of the Massachusetts Teachers Association, and the St. Peter's Alumni Association.
He enjoyed reading and sports. He was an enthusiastic Red Sox and Patriots Fan and enjoyed watching college football. Among all the interests Joe had, the most important to him was his family; he found his greatest joy, being with them, especially his granddaughters.
Friends and relatives are invited to visit with the family Thursday, Nov. 8, from 4 to 7 p.m., in the MERCADANTE FUNERAL HOME & CHAPEL, 370 Plantation St., Worcester. His funeral will be celebrated Friday, Nov. 9 from the funeral home, with a Mass at 10 a.m. in St Anne's Church, 130 Boston Turnpike Rd., Shrewsbury. Burial with military honors will follow in Mountain View Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to St Anne's Church Human Services, 130 Boston Turnpike Rd., Shrewsbury, MA 01545.
