Florence (Sparks) Borden, 94, quietly left this life on the evening of October 21 at the Somerset Ridge Center, where she had been a resident for the past year. She was the loving wife of the late Clinton A. Borden, who passed away in 2010.
Florence was born and raised in Fall River, the daughter of the late Floyd and Jeanne (Briere) Sparks. She attended B.M.C. Durfee High School where she first met her husband, Clinton. They were happily married for 70 years and raised their three daughters in Fall River. In later years, they lived in Swansea and Westport.
While still raising a family, Florence was actively employed by Virginia Dare Stores in Fall River, where she became assistant manager. After more than 30 years of service, she reluctantly retired at age 70 only because the store finally closed.
In her retirement, she maintained a vibrant and enthusiastic approach, taking a major interest in all that life had to offer. She was always well versed on world events, national and local politics, and major sporting events. If you missed reading the daily newspaper, Florence could update you on everything you needed to know.
But, most of all, she focused her enthusiasm and joy on her nine grandchildren and her eight great-grandchildren. On any given day, she could describe the activities and achievements of every one of them. They will all miss her so much.
Florence is survived by her daughters: Patricia Silva (Dale), Barbara L’Heureux (Donald) and Susan Holding (Malcolm) as well as sisters: Annette Evans of Princeton, NJ and Kathleen Costa of Grass Valley, CA. She was predeceased by sisters: Rita Bearse and Cecelia Sullivan and brother: John Sparks.
The family would like to express their sincere thanks and appreciation to all members of the management and staff at Somerset Ridge for their extraordinary care provided during her time at the Center.
Memorial Mass of Christian Burial to which relatives and friends are invited will be Tuesday, October 29, 2013 at 11:00 A.M. at St. John the Baptist Church, Westport.
Visitation will be Tuesday from 9:30 – 10:30 A.M. prior to the Mass at the Potter Funeral Home.
Interment will be Oak Grove Cemetery, Fall River.
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made in Florence’s name to the Special Olympics of MA, ATTN: Donations, Yawkey Sports Training Center, 512 Forest St., Marlborough, MA 01752.