Worcester - Elsie P. (Phillips) Carlson, 80, passed away at home in the early hours of Friday, May 30, 2014, with her devoted husband Alvar A. Carlson and her loving children at her side. She leaves her husband of 50 years, Alvar A. Carlson; sons, James J. Heelan Jr. of Portland, Oregon; Philip G. Carlson and partner John G. Carlson of North Grafton; daughters, Melissa M. (Heelan) Hey wife of David A. Hey of Oakham, and Laura E. Carlson and partner Lisa Worthington of Worcester. Elsie was predeceased by son Bruce F. Heelan Sr., formerly of Springfield. She also leaves her brother Phelon B. Phillips of Arizona; three grandchildren, Bruce F. Heelan Jr., Andrew A. Hey, and Matthew D. Hey; and nieces & nephews.
Elsie was born and raised in Bronx, NY, daughter of Elsie M. (Phelon) and Bela F. Phillips. She attended PS 16 and graduated from Walton High School. After moving to Massachusetts in 1959, she married Alvar A. Carlson and settled in Worcester where she enjoyed raising her family. Early on, Elsie helped support her family by waitressing and hosting at local restaurants. Throughout the 1970s and 80s, she was involved in many community agencies concerned with enriching the quality of life for Worcester residents. She loved painting, sewing, and gardening and shared her love of the arts as Director of the Summer's World Program in Worcester. Her family wishes to thank Elsie's doctors and their staff for their support and care, as well as the JHC Hospice whose care comforted Elsie during these last weeks.
Funeral services will be held at Nordgren Memorial Chapel, 300 Lincoln Street, Tuesday, June 3. A calling hour will be held at 10am followed by the service at 11 am. Burial will be held at a later date in Worcester County Memorial Park, Paxton. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the JHC Hospice, 629 Salisbury St., Worcester MA 01609.
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