Arlene F. (Shumski) Ricard, 83, of Gardner, died peacefully Thursday, October 1, 2026, in Heywood Hospital of Gardner, after an illness.

Born in Gardner on July 10, 1943, she was the daughter of the late William and Cora (Perreault) Shumski. She graduated from Gardner High School with the Class of 1961, where she was a member of the marching band, beginning a lifelong love of music. Arlene was a cashier manager employed by Rich's Department Store of Gardner for many years until its closing. She later worked for Walmart, where she remained until her retirement.
Arlene was a parishioner of the former Sacred Heart of Jesus Church of Gardner. Music remained an important part of her life, and she was a member of the community band, where she played the baritone saxophone. She was also a member of the Genealogy Society of Central Massachusetts. Arlene had a deep interest in her family's history and spent countless hours researching her genealogy and learning about the generations who came before her. She also enjoyed crocheting and especially loved creating handmade gifts for family and friends.

Above all, Arlene's greatest love was her family. She treasured the time spent with those she loved and the many memories they created together throughout the years.

Arlene is survived by her husband of 62 years, Floyd A. Ricard of Gardner; two daughters, Ann Audet and her husband Kevin of Gardner, and Beth Ricard and her significant other, Willi Massinger of Gardner; a son, Floyd Ricard and his wife Carly of Westminster; her grandchildren, Marcy and Brian LeBlanc, Jennifer Buckingham, Rebecca Beirholm, Keith Audet, Anthony Kunhs, and Grace and Luke Ricard; five great-grandchildren, Hunter, Penelope "Penny," Willow, Logan, and Noah, with another great-grandchild, Jude, on the way; and several nieces, nephews, and cousins.

She was predeceased by her brother, William J. Shumski Jr.; and a grandchild, Zebadiah "Zeb".

Visitation will be held Tuesday, October 13, 2026, from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. in the Boucher Funeral Home, Inc., 110 Nichols Street, Gardner, MA.

Graveside Services will be held Wednesday, October 14, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. in Notre Dame Cemetery, West Street, Gardner, MA.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105, or through their website. Please reference in memory of Arlene F. Ricard.