Charlton - Grace E. Nugent, beloved wife, mother, babcia, and friend, passed away peacefully on February 14, 2026 surrounded by the family she devoted her life to. Born in Poland, Grace faced profound hardship early in life, losing her mother at a young age and later immigrating to the United States with her sister. After spending time in an orphanage, she was welcomed into the loving home of her adoptive parents, who gave her the stability and family she cherished for the rest of her life.
Grace met the love of her life, Thomas Nugent, through a series of well-timed introductions at the bank where she worked. Their connection grew into a lifelong partnership filled with devotion, shared dreams, and countless adventures—from building a home in Charlton to traveling abroad, including a memorable trip to Poland. Together they raised two daughters, who were the pride of her life.
A woman of remarkable determination, Grace built a successful career through hard work and perseverance. She held roles at AstraZeneca and later at Avecia, where she rose to a supervisory position in quality control. Known for her dedication, she rarely missed a day of work and formed lasting friendships with colleagues she deeply admired.
Grace’s greatest joy was her family. She treasured her daughters, her extended family, and especially her grandsons, who brought her immeasurable happiness. Her home was always filled with warmth, laughter, and the traditions she held dear.
Throughout her courageous battle with cancer, Grace showed extraordinary strength, dignity, and love. She fought not for herself, but for the people she adored.
Her legacy lives on in the values she instilled—hard work, resilience, and unwavering devotion to family. Grace will be profoundly missed and forever remembered by all who loved her. She is remembered by her husband, Thomas Nugent; her two daughters, Valerie Zawalich and her husband, Timothy Zawalich, and youngest daughter, Kerri Nugent; her two grandsons, Matthew and Jonathan Zawalich; her Mother, Wanda Lemanski; her brother, Bob Lemanski and her sister, Ewa Kuczynski.
The funeral for Grace will be held on Friday, February 20, 2026 from the Alfred Roy & Sons – Henry Funeral Service Memorial Chapel 33 Ward St. Worcester with a Mass of Christian Burial at 10:30 AM in Our Lady of Czestochowa Church 34 Ward St. Worcester with burial following in Notre Dame Cemetery, Worcester. Calling hours will be held on Thursday, February 19, from 4 to 7 PM in the funeral home.
Flowers may be sent or memorial contributions in memory of Grace may be made to the UMass Memorial Cancer Research by visiting - https://www.ummhealth.org/giving
Marchand Memorial Homes is honored to assisting the family with funeral arrangements. To share a memory of Grace or to sign her online guestbook, please visit www.MarchandMemorialHomes.com