Laurie Pieterse

LONGMEADOW – Laurie S. Pieterse, 85, passed away peacefully at home on June 1, 2017 surrounded by her loving family. Born in Springfield, MA to the late Walter and Jane (O’Brien) Stearns, she was a graduate of the College of Our Lady of the Elms. Laurie continued her education at Catholic University and received a Master’s Degree from Yale University. Laurie enjoyed a 30-year teaching career in the Springfield school system, retiring from Central High School. She was a member of the St. Mary’s Women’s Guild and the National and Massachusetts Teachers Associations. Laurie was devoted to her faith and her family and especially loved spending time with her grandchildren and great grandchildren. She had a great appreciation of music and the arts and enjoyed gardening, supporting community events and attending Springfield Symphony Orchestra performances. Laurie was predeceased by her husband and the love of her life -- Charles R. Pieterse in May, 2003 and her sister Mary Anne O’Rourke. Laurie leaves her children Anne S. Pieterse and her husband Ralf Urbach of Gloucester, MA; Charles W. Pieterse and his wife Sara of Ridgefield, CT; James A. Pieterse and his wife Lorie of Springfield, MA; and David L. Pieterse of Fairport, NY; along with nine grandchildren and two great grandchildren. Family and friends are invited to gather on Monday, June 12th from 9:00 AM-10:00 AM at Forastiere Smith Funeral Home, 220 North Main Street, East Longmeadow, MA followed by a Liturgy of Christian Burial at 11:00 AM at St. Mary’s Church, 519 Longmeadow Street, Longmeadow, MA. Burial will take place at 1:00 PM at the Massachusetts Veterans’ Memorial Cemetery, 1390 Main Street, Agawam, MA. Memorial contributions in Laurie’s memory can be made to the charity of one’s choice. For more information, please visit www.forastiere.com.

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