Mom Janet Irene (Blute) Clarke, lovingly known as "Nana," passed away peacefully on December 16, 2025, in Lowell, Massachusetts, at the age of 84.
Born on June 20, 1941, in Roxbury, Massachusetts, Janet was the daughter of Irene Blute. Throughout her life, she remained deeply rooted in her community and devoted to her family. She shared a beautiful life with her beloved husband Bernard “Bernie” Clarke, with whom she is now joyfully reunited.
Janet was the heart of her family—a loving, caring, and funny mom and nana whose warmth and humor left an indelible mark on all who knew her. She had a playful spirit that shone through in her love for April Fools’ Day pranks and dressing up for Halloween. Her sense of fun was matched only by her deep devotion to those she loved.
She is survived by her son Chris Clarke and his wife Nicole Picard Clarke, along with their two sons Brendan (27) and Shawn (24) from North Chelmsford, MA; daughter Kim Caruso from Arlington, MA ; and daughter Cathleen Lonergan and her husband Sean Lonergan with their sons Declan (16) and Kieran (14) from Seattle, WA. Janet’s love for her grandchildren was boundless—she played an active role in their lives from attending school events to everyday care, always present with encouragement and affection.
Janet also cherished time spent with extended family and friends. She was predeceased by her sister Andrea Lombardi and brother-in-law Joe Lombardi; cousin Carol Griffin; mother Irene Blute; and son-in-law Greg Caruso.
Beyond her family life, Janet found joy in community involvement. From her days being a girl’s scout leader and later in life participation in activities including a local bowling league. Her friendships flourished through groups like the Red Hat Club, where she enjoyed camaraderie and laughter among kindred spirits.
Janet’s legacy is one of love, laughter, dedication, and joy. Her presence brought light to every room she entered. Though she will be sorely missed by all who knew her, there is comfort in knowing that she is at peace.
May her memory bring comfort to those who knew and loved her. Janet's Funeral Mass will be celebrated in St. Agnes Church, 22 Medford Street, Arlington on Saturday, January 3, 2026, at 11:30 AM. Relatives and friends are most welcome to attend. Visiting hours will be held in the Beals-Geake-Magliozzi Funeral Home, 29 Governors Avenue, Medford on Friday, January 2, 2026, from 4 to 8 PM. Interment will be held in the Mt. Pleasant Cemetery in Arlington. For additional information, please visit, www.magliozzifuneralhome.com.