Denise Marie Pillsbury

Denise Marie Pillsbury, born March 1, 1955, passed away after displaying amazing strength and grace amidst her journey with cancer on May 5, 2022. She was the youngest child of Irving W Pillsbury and Marion M (Kiely) Pillsbury. 

She was predeceased by both of her parents; brothers: David Pillsbury and Thomas Pillsbury; sisters: Bernadette Hills, Joyce Chapman, and Betty Cleary.

She is survived by brothers: Irving Pillsbury and John Pillsbury; sisters: Elaine Newsham (Stanley), Martha Spaulding (Kim), Barbara Labadini (Robert), Nancy Reagan (Robert), Mary Jane Pillsbury, many generations of nieces, nephews, cousins, and her feline companion, Lily.

Denise or "Denny" as she was more affectionately known, attended Pepperell schools, graduated from the Academy of Notre Dame in Tyngsboro, MA, and also attended the University of Massachusetts at Amherst. She was an avid and proficient equestrian, who loved caring for horses, especially her own, Marcel. Her love of horses was palpable in the way she spoke of her favorite breed, the Wild Arabian.

She loved her family fiercely and was very devoted and proud of each and every one of them. The joy that was given to Denny by each was visible in the smile it brought to her face. She especially loved spending time with the great-nieces and nephews and her patience and willingness to engage them in whatever topic or adventure they chose was extraordinary. She was such an immensely compassionate and caring person, who held a particular affection for those in need. She was especially supportive and giving to her friends and neighbors at The Groton Commons. Denny will be deeply missed by all those that knew and loved her most and we are grateful for the time that we had to share with her. Until we meet again Denny, we'll take it from here.

Family and friends will gather for Denise's funeral mass on Saturday, May 14, 2022 at 10:30 am at Our Lady of Grace Parish worshiping at St. Joseph's Church, 28 Tarbell St., Pepperell. Burial will follow at St. Joseph Cemetery, Pepperell.

To attend the funeral mass remotely, please activate the link below at 10:30 am on the day of the service

https://iframe.dacast.com/b/156599/c/541147

Arrangements under the care of Badger Funeral Home, 45 School Street, Groton, MA 01450. 978-448-6782 www.badgerfuneral.com Funeral Directors, Glenn D. Burlamachi, Normand E. Marchand, Adam G. Holdaway and Glen D. Hall.