RoseMary (Shea) Driscoll

DRISCOLL, RoseMary Shea, of Brookline, MA, died peacefully on Saturday, November 29, 2025. Loving wife of the late Richard Dennis Driscoll and beloved mother of Richard, Jr. and his wife Saviz of Milton; Timothy and his wife Kara of Winchester; William and his wife Kristin of Hingham; Paul and his wife Allison of Dover; John of Arlington, VA; Molly and her husband Robert of Newton; and James of Jupiter, FL. Daughter of the late Timothy Shea and Mary McDonald and sister of William Shea (deceased), RoseMary was the cherished “RoRo” to twelve grandchildren.

A lifelong resident of Brookline, RoseMary was a graduate of the Edith C. Baker School (Class of 1950), Brookline High School (Class of 1954), and Boston College (Class of 1958). She was among the first women to graduate from the Lynch School of Education at Boston College, an achievement she carried with quiet pride. After completing her undergraduate degree, she returned to the Baker School and taught fifth grade with a particular love for teaching math. Her connection to Baker School spanned three generations: first as a student, then as a teacher, and finally as a mother of seven graduates.

In 1962 RoseMary married Richard Driscoll. Their fifty-five-year marriage was a blessed union and the foundation of a lively, loving home that eventually welcomed seven children, six sons and Molly. Shortly after the birth of her first child, RoseMary embraced what she knew to be her greatest calling - motherhood. She expertly coaxed the best efforts from her children in their academic, athletic, and professional pursuits.

RoseMary’s bond with the Town of Brookline ran deep. Over her 88 years she wove herself into the community’s fabric while skating at Larz Anderson Park pond in her youth, shuttling her children to practices and games at the Park’s rink, and later enjoying brisk walks around the Park’s grounds.

Faith was important to RoseMary. She was married at the Saint Lawrence Church and remained a regular communicant at Infant Jesus Parish, Holy Name Parish, and St. Mary’s Chapel at Boston College. A member of Charles River Country Club for forty years, RoseMary eventually took up the sport of golf after decades of supporting her family in her various roles as chauffeur, caddie, and fan. Well into her seventies, she could be spotted on the course, carrying her own bag and playing whichever holes she pleased. Never having subscribed to either cell phone or cable tv services, RoseMary’s self-reliance was enveloped in a warm personal touch. Her visits had a purpose as she loved “opening the doors with her elbows” bearing heartfelt gifts of chocolate Swiss pies, transplanted pachysandra, and recommended books. RoseMary’s greatest gift was the example she set every day with endless patience, deep humility, enduring strength, and unconditional love.

A private family service will be held to honor RoseMary's life. The family appreciates your thoughts and prayers during this time.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation in RoseMary’s memory to one of her favorite charities or to one of your own:

Boston College High School in the name of Richard D. Driscoll and RoseMary Driscoll Class of 1948 Scholarship (bchigh.edu/give)

Dana Farber Cancer Institute in the name of David P. Perini, Jr. Quality of Life Clinic (https://danafarber.jimmyfund.org)