Marie F. (Kelly) Jacques, 85, of Fitchburg, formerly of Templeton, died peacefully Monday, June 1, 2026, in her home.

Born in Gardner on November 15, 1940, she was the daughter of the late John and Emma (LeClair) Kelly. A 1958 graduate of Narragansett Regional High School in Templeton, Marie went on to earn both her Bachelor's Degree in Education and Master's Degree in Reading from Fitchburg State College. She dedicated 27 years to educating young minds as an elementary school teacher with the Gardner Public Schools until her retirement in 1999.

Marie was a devoted parishioner of both Holy Cross Church and St. Martin's Catholic Church in Templeton. She was also a member of the Retired Teachers Association. Throughout her life, Marie enjoyed many hobbies and interests, including golfing, bowling, crafting, reading, and traveling. She especially enjoyed relaxing with a good book at the end of the day. Marie loved to learn about her Irish heritage and cherishing her many cats through her life. Above all, Marie treasured time spent with her family and loved ones. She cherished every gathering, holiday, laughter-filled conversation, and special memory shared throughout the years.

Marie is survived by her daughter, Lisa M. Decatur and her husband, Martin, of Troy, NH; two sons, Christopher P. Jacques and his wife, Martha, of Milford, and Brian D. Jacques and his significant other, Evelyn Dassau, of Gardner; six grandchildren, Sarah, Megan, Julia, Jennifer, Rush, and Sasha three great-grandchildren and one on the way; and several nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.

She was predeceased by her beloved husband of 44 years, David P. Jacques, who died in 2007, and by her son, Daniel K. Jacques, who died in 1986.

Calling hours will be held Monday, June 8, 2026, from 9:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. in the Boucher Funeral Home, Inc., 110 Nichols Street, Gardner, MA, followed by a Mass at 12:00 p.m. in St. Martin's Catholic Church, 248 State Road, Otter River, MA. Burial in St. John's Cemetery, West Street, Gardner, MA, will be held at a later date at the convenience of the family.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to The Salvation Army, Attn: Development Department, 25 Shawmut Road, Canton, MA 02021, or on their website at www.salvationarmyusa.org. Please reference in memory of Marie F. Jacques.