Ann Marie (Connelly) DeCoste of Dedham, formerly of Jamaica Plain, Westwood, Osterville, and Fort Myers, Florida, passed away peacefully on September 2, 2026, surrounded by the love of her family.
Ann was the cherished daughter of the late James and Catherine Connelly. She was the beloved wife of the late Charles J. DeCoste and Eugene Catino. Ann was the devoted and loving mother of Sherée Rau and her husband, Charles, of Norfolk; Chuck DeCoste and his late wife Maureen, of Littleton; and the late Michelle and Jeffrey DeCoste.
Her children were truly her world. She lived for them and was their biggest fan. Sherée was not only her daughter, but also her best friend and beloved partner in crime. The love and respect they had for each other was profound. Chuck was a wonderful son who never hesitated to make the trip to spend time with her and always arrived with a “Black and White” in hand. Although Ann endured the unimaginable heartbreak of losing Michelle and her baby, Jeffrey, her family takes comfort in knowing that they were both waiting to welcome her at the gates of Heaven, along with Dad.
Ann was the loving sister of James Connelly of West Bridgewater and the late Thomas Connelly. She loved her brothers and always worried about them, as a big sister would. Being a Gram to her 12 grandchildren enriched her life beyond words: Ryan, Kaitlyn, and Elizabeth Halpin; Evan and Noah Rau, Madison Wolfsberg and Emileigh Steffenhagen; Adam, Joseph, Tucker, Heather, and Brady DeCoste. They will all miss her loving texts and calls just to check in and say “hi”. All of them cherished those special connections immensely.
Bringing her even more joy and happiness was becoming a great-grandmother, “GG” to her 14 great-grandchildren. She always had one of them on her lap or in her loving embrace. She is further survived by many beloved nieces, nephews, cousins, extended family members, and dear friends.
Ann devoted many years to the Boston Public School system, where she found great joy in teaching children and touching the lives of her students and their families. No matter where she went, a former student or parent would stop and embrace her. She also worked for many years at “The Edison,” where she formed lifelong friendships that she treasured. Her warmth, compassion, and ability to make others feel special left a lasting impression on everyone fortunate enough to work alongside her.
Ann was also a former president of the Xaverian Brothers High School Parents’ Council and a longtime member of the Ladies Sodality at St. Margaret Mary Church in Westwood. She was involved with both the Boston Elks Lodge #10 in West Roxbury and the Norwood Elks Lodge #1124.
Ann was the matriarch and beloved “Queenie” of her family—the strong, loving presence around whom everyone gathered. Those who knew her will remember her infectious laugh, her bright and beautiful smile, and the way she made everyone feel
welcomed and loved. She treasured time spent with her family above all else and filled their lives with laughter, strength, warmth, and countless cherished memories.
Ann’s love and spirit will live on through her children, grandchildren, great- grandchildren, and all those blessed to have known her. The heart of her family, she will be deeply missed and forever held in the hearts of all who loved her.
Funeral from William J. Gormley Funeral Home, 2055 Centre St., West Roxbury, on Thursday, September 10th at 9:00am. Followed by a Funeral Mass in St. Theresa of Avila Church at 10:00am. Relatives and friends are kindly invited to attend. Interment Private.
Visiting Hours Wednesday, September 9th from 4:00pm to 8:00pm in the Funeral Home.
In lieu of flowers, donations in memory of Ann may be made to Compassionate Care ALS, CCALS, P.O. Box 1052, West Falmouth, MA 02574 or www.ccals.org
For guest book please visit www.gormleyfuneral.com