DUROSS Adelaide, aged 85, of West Roxbury, passed away peacefully on July 6, 2026 surrounded by her family. Born on September 15, 1938 in South Boston to Billy and Estelle (Connors) Lewis, she graduated from Boston State Teachers College in 1960 and established a successful career as an elementary education teacher. She was known for her dedication, wit and kindness until her retirement when she began raising her family and fostering children.
On April 15, 1967, she married Joseph Duross with whom she shared 30 years of marriage until his death in 1997. Together they built a life rooted in love, resilience and family values. When they started their family they adopted four children and had one biological son. Adelaide was a devoted mother Jennifer Walsh and her husband Brian of Walpole, John Duross of RI., Mary Duross of Dorchester, Michael Duross of FL., and the late Joe Duross. Loving and proud Grammy of Joe Duross, Patrick Duross, Alicia Jo Viera, Davion Harnett, Donte Serrano, Luis Duross, Rayne Duross, Skyye Duross, Kristen Roderick, Max Walsh, Jack Walsh, Ryan Walsh, Kaylee Walsh, and Shayne Walsh. Great Grammy of Vanessa Viera, Gideon Viera, Lazarus Viera, and Anthony Roderick. Sister of the late William and Eddie Lewis. Also survived by many nieces and nephews. Adelaide’s family was her greatest pride and joy and she never missed an opportunity to celebrate their milestones. Her greatest legacy was fostering 41 children throughout her life.
Outside of work, Adelaide was an avid movie buff, loved music, spending time with her family, taking trips to Disney. She was a longtime and faithful parishioner and Eucharistic Minister at St. Theresa Church. She brought warmth, humor, and kindness to everyone through prayers sessions, teaching CCD, she was an associate of the Holy Union.
A visitation will be held at the P.E. Murray - F.J. Higgins, George F. Doherty & Sons Funeral Home 2000 Centre St. West Roxbury on Wednesday, July 15th from 9:30-10:30am, followed by a Funeral Mass at St. Theresa Church, West Roxbury at 11am. Relatives and friends kindly invited. Interment St. James Section of St. Joseph Cemetery.
The family wishes to thank everyone at Alliance Health at Maples and Hope Health Hospice, and her best friend Joyce Jacobs, for their compassionate care during her final days.
Donations may be made in memory to Hope Health Hospice or Catholic Charities, an organization close to her heart.