ANDERSON, ELIZABETH T. (Ruane) of Needham and Pocasset, 90, passed away peacefully at her home on January 25. She leaves behind Gerald her beloved husband of 67 years, her children, Stephen and his wife Gail, Joan Patterson and her husband Phil, Brian and his wife, Nancy and Patricia and her husband Greg. She was blessed with nine grandchildren, Daniel, Jaclyn, Kimberly, Lillian, Pamela, Maggie, Kenna, Dexter and Bridget. She also had two great-grandchildren, Isabella and Connor. Also survived by many nieces and nephews. She was admired and loved by all. Her parents James and Mary (McGuinness) had eight children, she was the seventh.
In 1943 she graduated from the Needham High School with honors. She was the captain of the girl's basketball and field hockey teams and received the Best Sports Award. She worked as as bookkeeper at Anderson Machine for many years. Elizabeth was an engaged citizen and active volunteer. She was a 4-H and Cub Scout leader. She was a member of St. Joseph's Guild and the Needham Library Book Club. For years she volunteered for Traveling Meals in Needham and Rosie's Place. She and Gerald danced with the Great Plain Squares. In 2012 she and her husband received the Richard Melick Award in recognition of their years of service to the Town of Needham. Her neighbors in Needham and Pocasset were a source of support and entertainment. Elizabeth enjoyed traveling with her husband, spending time with her family and friends, and playing games with her grandchildren.
Funeral from the George F. Doherty & Sons Funeral Home, 1305 Highland Ave. Needham, Thursday, January 28 at 9am followed by a Funeral Mass in St. Joseph Church, Needham at 10am. Relatives and friends kindly invited. Visiting hours Wednesday 4-8pm. Interment in St. Mary Cemetery, Needham. In lieu of flowers expressions of sympathy may be made in Elizabeth’s memory to the St. Joseph School Endowment Fund, 110 May St., Needham, MA 02492, or to the American Cancer Society 30 Speen St. Framingham, MA 01701.