Irene M. (McDonnell) Welter

With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of our cherished mother, Irene (McDonnell) Welter of Roslindale, at the age of 96.

Irene was the beloved wife of the late John X. Welter. She was the loving daughter of the late William and Mary McDonnell of Forest Hills and Roscommon, Ireland. Irene leaves behind a legacy of love as the devoted mother of nine children.  Jayne Gordon & her husband James of Farmington, CT, Jacquelyn Casey & her partner, Cecil McCoin of Chatham, Francis A. Welter and his wife Marguerite, of Walpole, Louise Schiarizzi & her husband Andrew of Roslindale,  William Welter and his wife Janice of Mashpee, Amy Maloof and her husband Richard of Norwood, John Welter and his wife Julie of Hyde Park, Nancy Welter and her husband Michael Loney of West Roxbury, and Brian Welter and his wife Kathy of Walpole. Irene is also fondly remembered by her former son-in-laws Steve Casey and Steve Brown. She was a cherished grandmother of 25 adored grandchildren & a source of endless delight to her 30 great-grandchildren. Irene’s greatest joy in life was found in the embrace of her family.

Irene was the sister of William McDonnell of Georgia and the late Beatrice Davidson and Paul J. McDonnell and many beloved nieces and nephews.

Irene’s professional journey began as a secretary for the Boston Public Schools. She worked at many schools throughout the city where she formed lifelong friendships that enriched her life.

Her spiritual home was at Holy Name Parish where she was deeply involved and forged social connections and cherished memories that stayed with her throughout her life’s journey.

Irene could be seen out and about the neighborhood either at Roche Bros supermarket or

catching the “Wren Street” bus for a quick visit to Filene’s basement. She also was a fixture in the neighborhood as a second mother to many and a friend to all.

Irene’s spirit lives on in the love she shared, the kindnesses she bestowed, and the countless lives she touched.

We would like to thank the caring staff at the Hebrew Rehabilitation Center who provided comfort and care to Irene.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be sent in Irene’s name to the American Heart Association. www.heart.org

Services will be held on Sunday, March 24, from 2 pm to 6 pm at the Robert J Lawler & Crosby Funeral Home, 1803 Centre St. West Roxbury, and Monday, March 25, from 10 am to 11 am. Funeral Mass to follow at Holy Name Church, West Roxbury, 11:30 am. Interment Forest Hills Cemetery.