Marion M. (LaFreniere) Prince, 97, passed away peacefully on June 4, 2026, at Heywood Hospital in Gardner, Massachusetts, surrounded by her loving family.

She was born on March 1, 1929, in Winchendon, Massachusetts, the daughter of Leo and Priscilla LaFreniere. Marion grew up in Winchendon during the Great Depression and attended the local public schools, experiences that helped shape the strong work ethic, resilience, and determination that defined her throughout her life.

Following her education, she met Carl Russell, whom she married in March 1946 after his return from service in World War II. Together they built a loving family and welcomed six children: Carl Jr., Shirley, Linda, Rodney, Anthony, and Darlene. Throughout their years together, they enjoyed spending time in Vermont and creating cherished memories along the shores of Lake Champlain.

During periods of independence in her life, Marion worked tirelessly to provide for her family. She was employed at Ray Plastics for more than 20 years and later worked at EB Kingdom before retiring. Above all else, Marion took great pride in being a mother and homemaker, dedicating herself to the care, comfort, and well-being of her children.

In 1973, Marion met Charles Prince. The couple married in April 1988 and shared many happy years together. They enjoyed the warm weather and eventually made their home in Clearwater, Florida. Together, they loved visiting casinos and traveling the East Coast, spending winters in the South and summers surrounded by family and friends in New England.

Marion's greatest joy in life was her family. She treasured her role as a mother, Meme, Great-Meme, and Great-Great-Meme. Those who knew her will remember her for her unwavering work ethic, remarkable resilience, sharp wit, fierce independence, and, in her later years, the wonderfully unexpected comments that could leave an entire room laughing.

In addition to her parents, Marion was predeceased by her husband, Charles Prince; her children, Shirley Russell, Linda Russell, and Anthony Russell; her grandson, Scott Bosworth and her siblings, Harry LaFreniere, Walter LaFreniere, Olive LaFreniere, Leda LeFrennie, and Alice Trombley.

She is survived by her brothers, Leo LaFreniere of Petersham, MA and Donald LaFreniere of Winchendon, MA; her children, Carl Russell Jr. of Winchendon, MA, Rodney Russell of Newport, TN, and Darlene Russell of Gardner, MA; her grandchildren, Paul, Maurice, Ernest, Chad, Timmy, Mike, Matt, and Nick; many great-grandchildren and great-great-grandchildren; and numerous nieces, nephews, extended family members, and friends who will miss her dearly.

Family and friends are invited to attend calling hours on Wednesday, June 24, 2026, from 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. at Boucher Funeral Home, 110 Nichols Street, Gardner, MA. A funeral service will follow at 12:00 p.m. at the funeral home.

Following the service, all are welcome to gather for a time of fellowship, remembrance, and celebration of Marion's life.

To send floral tributes to the family, the family asks arrangements be made through Last Minute Gifts & Flowers of Fitchburg, Massachusetts.

Marion's family finds comfort in the countless memories she leaves behind and in the generations of family whose lives were enriched by her love, strength, and example