Comeau Funeral Home, 486 Main Street, Haverhill, MA (2026)

12/23/2025

Donna L. Janackas, 79, of North Andover passed away on December 20, 2025 at Lawrence General Hospital.
Donna was born in Haverhill on November 15, 1946 to William and Cora (Schena) Janackas. She was educated in Haverhill public schools and worked locally for many years as a retail clerk at Mal’s Department Store. Donna was very active at St. Rita’s Church and was also a member of All Saints Parish and St. Michael’s Church in North Andover. She enjoyed going shopping, playing BINGO, and cooking. In her later years she became a caretaker for her mother which was a perfect example Donna’s caring heart and selflessness. Having no children of her own, Donna was the favorite aunt to her nieces and nephews. She will be fondly remembered as a devoted daughter, sister, aunt, and great aunt.
Donna is survived by her brother Peter Janackas and his wife Pamela of Kingston, NH, her sister Angela Demestihas and her husband George of Haverhill, and Deborah Roberts and her husband Michael of Haverhill. She also leaves behind her nieces and nephews Anthony Demestihas and his wife Artemis, Melissa and Christopher Irvin, Michael Roberts, Erich Roberts, Chelsey and Colin Bennett, Peter Janackas, Jr. and his partner Kaitlin Paul, Mindy Janackas, April Janackas and Alexis Janackas and her partner Dan Lynch; and ten great nieces and nephews.
Family and friends are respectfully invited to attend calling hours on Saturday, December 27th from 2PM until 4PM at the Kevin B. Comeau Funeral Home, 486 Main Street, Haverhill. Burial is private. Please visit www.comeaufuneral.com and Comeau Funeral Home on Facebook.

12/23/2025

Bedford, NH – Josette M. (Pionnier) Leo, 93, of Bedford, NH passed away on December 21, 2025 at the Elliot Hospital in Manchester, NH.
Josette was born in Beuvry, France on August 21, 1932; she was the daughter of Alfred and Andree Pionnier. Josette was raised and educated in France, where she met the love the love of her life, Bobby, a U.S. soldier. They came back to the U.S., where they raised a loving family, and where she worked as a seamstress in the shoe industry for many years. Josette was a wonderful woman full of love for her family, friends and her dogs. She enjoyed shopping, cooking and especially spending holidays with her family. She will be remembered as a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, great grandmother, sister and aunt.
Josette is survived by her son Enrico Leo, Jr. of Greenwood, ME, her daughters Elizabeth MacAvoy and her husband Brian of Haverhill, and Ann Johnson and her husband Nils of Merrimack, NH. She also leaves behind her sister Claudine Bernard of Beuvry, France; her grandchildren Megan Leo, Rachel MacAvoy, Adam Johnson, Brian Johnson; and her great grandchildren Sebastian Leo Grasso, Brayden MacAvoy, and Brielle MacAvoy; as well as several nieces and nephews. She was predeceased by her husband Enrico Albert Leo, Sr. and her sister Christine Pionnier.
Family and friends are respectfully invited to attend calling hours on Saturday, December 27th from 10AM until 11:30AM followed by a funeral home chapel service at 11:30AM at the Kevin B. Comeau Funeral Home, 486 Main Street, Haverhill. Please visit www.comeaufuneral.com and Comeau Funeral Home on Facebook.

12/22/2025

HAVERHILL – Muriel D. (Fisher) Sanford, 87, of Haverhill passed away on December 19, 2025 at the Southern New Hampshire Medical Center in Nashua, NH.
Muriel was born in Truro, Nova Scotia on July 7, 1938, the daughter of Norman and Frances (Mayes) Fisher. She was raised and educated in Canada and eventually worked locally for many years for the City of Haverhill. Muriel will be remembered as a devoted wife, mother and grandmother. She is survived by her children Sonya Baker, Thane Sanford, Michelle Sanford, Darcy Sanford, Darrin “Bug” Sanford, and Deirdre Sanford; as well as her brother Ed Elmont Wayne; and her eight grandchildren. She was predeceased by her husband Leyland Sanford in 1996, and her son Shawn Sanford in 2005; as well as her brothers and sisters: Frances Norma, Erma Gertrude, Stewart Mayes, Ira Layton, Margaret Irene, Doris Mae, Russell Chandler, Homer Alexander, and Lawrence Howard
Family and friends are respectfully invited to attend calling hours on Monday, December 29th from 4:00PM until 6:00PM at the Kevin B. Comeau Funeral Home, 486 Main Street, Haverhill. Please visit www.comeaufuneral.com and Comeau Funeral Home on Facebook.

12/22/2025

Haverhill – Robert C. Meagher, 66, of Haverhill, passed away on Saturday, December 20, 2025 at the High Pointe Hospice House after a lengthy illness.
Born in Arlington, MA he was the son of the late, Francis L. and Mary A. (Danaher) Meagher. He attended Arlington public schools and was a Graduate of Arlington High School, class of 1977. Mr. Meagher was a talented mechanic as he owned and operated Silva’s Auto repair in Chelmsford for several years until his retirement. Robert, AKA “Bobby” was an avid boater and enjoyed riding his Harley and going to drag races. He was always working on cars, and was the type of guy that was always willing to help anyone.
Bobby is survived by his wife Pamela “Penny” Meagher of Haverhill, his step daughter Kerry Owens of Nashua, and his step son Timothy Woodard of Haverhill; and his step granddaughters Kayla Owens, Madison Owens, and Lilly Woodard. He also leaves behind his brother Peter Meagher of Wolfeboro, NH. He was predeceased by his brother Paul F. Meagher.
Family and friends are respectfully invited to attend calling hours on Tuesday December 23rd from 10AM until 11:30AM followed by a funeral home chapel service at 11:30AM at the Kevin B. Comeau Funeral Home, 486 Main Street, Haverhill. Please visit www.comeaufuneral.com and Comeau Funeral Home on Facebook.

12/20/2025

Newmarket, NH - Rita Angela Burrows, 70, of Newmarket, NH passed away on December 17, 2025 at Exeter Hospital.
Rita was born in Stoneham, MA on October 3, 1955; she was the daughter of Frederick and Evelyn (Colantuoni) Allen. She was a graduate of Timberlane High School, Class of 1973 and worked for over 20 years locally at the Oxford as a housekeeper. Rita was always on the move and enjoyed long drives through the mountains by car and motorcycle. She was a crafter and a great cook who was known for her sense of humor and being a tell it like it is type of lady.
Rita is survived by her loving partner of over 20 years William George, her son Glen A. Allen of Haverhill, daughter Crystalann Marie Soko of Haverhill, and son Patrick K. Burrows of Conway, NH. She is also survived by her siblings Judith Dionne of Haverhill, Sandra Bretton of Methuen, Frederick Allen of Peabody, Diane Hart and her husband Paul of Salem, NH, and Janice Rheaume of Haverhill; and grandchildren Corrine Allen, Brook Burrows, Janelle Musangu, Glen Allen, Jr., and Sean Allen. She was predeceased by her husband Kenneth Burrows, and her sister Fredericka “Vicky” Oliver, and brother Douglas Allen.
Family and friends are respectfully invited to attend calling hours on Tuesday, December 23rd from 5PM until 7PM at the Kevin B. Comeau Funeral Home, 486 Main Street, Haverhill. Please visit www.comeaufuneral.com or Comeau Funeral Home on Facebook.

12/18/2025

METHUEN – Carlos M. Vazquez, Sr., 50, passed away on December 11, 2025 at Brigham and Women’s Hospital in Boston.
Carlos was born in Lawrence on December 20, 1974; he was the son of Mario and Joeann (Myers) Vazquez, Sr. He was an engineer and machinist, a hard worker and the protector and provider for his big family. Carlos was a big “Teddy Bear” who had a kind heart and was a devoted father. He was a talented artist, working with pen and ink, markers and charcoal, cartoon characters and script; and enjoyed country music and playing cards and dominos. Carlos will be remembered for his amazing talent and for being a devoted father.
Carlos is survived by his father Mario Vazquez, Sr., his wife Jessica L. (Leblanc) Vazquez of Methuen, his son Carlos M. Vazquez, Jr., and his daughter Mariah Vazquez of Dracut. He also leaves behind his step children Madalyn Leblanc, Victoria Leblanc, and Jenna Leblanc, his brothers Ramiro M. Vazquez of Andover, David M. Vazquez of Lawrence, Edward M. Vazquez and his wife Kristen of Townsend, Timothy Vazquez and his wife Jessica of Lawrence, and Mario R. Vazquez, Jr. of Manchester, and his sister Estella M. Vazquez of Lawrence. He was predeceased by his mother Joeann L. (Myers) Vazquez.
Family and friends are respectfully invited to attend calling hours on Saturday, December 20 from 1PM until 4PM followed by a 4PM funeral home chapel service at the Kevin B. Comeau Funeral Home, 486 Main Street, Haverhill. Please visit www.comeaufuneral.com or Comeau Funeral Home on Facebook.

12/15/2025

Deborah A. (Karcher) Wemyss, 74, passed away after a long illness on December 9, 2025 at Anna Jaques Hospital in Newburyport.
Deborah was born in Boston on December 21, 1950, the daughter of Frank and Marjorie Karcher. She worked as an Executive Assistant at TH Lee, a private equity firm in Boston, from 1996 until 2015. Deborah enjoyed reading and traveling, and was a regular WBUR donor. She is survived by her sons Roger Wemyss and his wife Vanize of Hope, RI, and Fred Wemyss and his wife Ellen of Billerica.
Arrangements are under the care of the Kevin B. Comeau Funeral Home, 486 Main Street, Haverhill. Please visit www.comeaufuneral.com or Comeau Funeral Home on Facebook.

12/10/2025

Rebecca Allen Ippolito, 47, beloved wife of Charles "Chuck" Ippolito, passed away on December 4, 2025, surrounded by her family at her home in Groveland.

Born in Framingham on February 3, 1978 to Michael and the late Judith (Hagman) Allen, Rebecca grew up in Natick and graduated from Natick High School before continuing her education at Plymouth State College.

Rebecca lived her life with unmistakable warmth, color, and purpose. She had a gift for making others feel seen and cared for, whether through a thoughtful gesture, a listening ear, or one of her signature, beautifully coordinated outfits—always creative, always on-theme, and always full of personality. Her sense of style was more than fashion; it was an extension of her joy, imagination, and ability to bring beauty into ordinary days.

More than anything, Rebecca was devoted to her family. She was a loving mother to Jameson and Katharine, and her greatest happiness came from being part of their lives, cheering them on, and creating memories together. She also loved to travel, finding joy in exploring new places and sharing those experiences with family and friends.

In addition to caring for her family, Rebecca worked as an Event Planner, Executive Assistant, Real Estate Agent and Property Investor, roles that reflected her organization, creativity, and ability to connect warmly with others. She approached every responsibility with determination, always wanting to get things done the right way, never quitting, even when faced with complex tasks or challenging personalities.

In addition to her immediate family, Rebecca also leaves her father Michael Allen of Ashland; her father-in-law James Ippolito and his wife Katherine, sister-in-law Jamie Doherty and her husband Brian and nephew Cole Doherty all from Tewksbury; and close friends Jess, Adam, and Mike, who stood by her with love and unwavering support.

Family and friends are respectfully invited to attend calling hours on Sunday, December 14th, from 10:00 AM to 1:00 PM at the Kevin B. Comeau Funeral Home, 486 Main Street, Haverhill. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly asks that loved ones reach out directly to offer personal support during this time. For online condolences or additional information, please visit www.comeaufuneral.com or the Comeau Funeral Home page on Facebook.

12/09/2025

Julie Rae (Highland) Woodall, 58, wife of Stephen “Woody” Woodall of Washington passed away on November 30, 2025 at Lahey Hospital and Medical Center in Burlington.
Julie was born in Spokane, WA on September 11, 1967; the daughter of Rodney Highland and Loretta (Dixon) Rich. Julie was a beautiful and devoted wife, selfless mother and passionate grandmother who was loyal to her family and loved being “GiGi” (she even had a sign that said “My favorite people call me Gigi”). She had a warm, ready smile, made friends effortlessly, and had a gift for seeing the good in everyone she met. She was an excellent cook, a joyful presence, and was known for her unforgettable snort laugh that could fill a room with happiness. She loved cheering on one daughter’s softball games and horseback riding with the other and watching her favorite game show “The Floor.” But nothing brought her greater happiness than the time spent with her grandchildren – her pride, her purpose, and her greatest joy.
Julie is survived by her husband of 15-1/2 years Stephen “Woody” Woodall. Son Beau Gibney (who preceded her in death) and survived by his wife Madison and children Alexis, Tanner, and Ryker. Daughter Logan Barrett and her husband Brian and children Chip and Cody. Daughter Sydney Thomas and her son Malone. Her mother Loretta Rich and stepfather Ed Rich. Her brother John (who preceded her in death) but survived by his wife Cindy Highland and children Hallie and Macy. Step daughter Marci Caufman and her husband Kevin. And of course, her 3 small four-legged canine boys, Charlie, Tucker, and Henry.
Arrangements are under the care of the Kevin B. Comeau Funeral Home, 486 Main Street, Haverhill. Please visit www.comeaufuneral.com or Comeau Funeral on Facebook.

12/08/2025

Wayne Walter Brooks, 86, longtime resident of Merrimac, MA, passed away on Oct 31, 2025.

Wayne was born in Malden on Oct 30, 1939 to William and Beatrice Brooks, and was a graduate of Essex Agricultural High School. He joined the US Army and, served 18 months in Korea as a Speed Radio Operator, then finished his service at FT Devens, MA before being honorably discharged in 1964. He then married his wife Eliene "Beanie" (Bastarache) Brooks. Wayne worked as a Lineman and then a working foreman for Mass Electric for 37 1/2 years until his planned retirement in 1998.

Wayne was very involved in serving the community. He was a volunteer fireman for the Merrimac Fire Dept for 35 years and retired as Captain; he was also a volunteer foreman for Wellborn Florida Fire Dept for 15 years and retired as Captain; and a former EMT on Merrimac Fire Dept; and former auxiliary policeman for the Merrimac Police Dept. Wayne had an absolute love of bluebirds and building bluebird houses for them, he was an avid card player and enjoyed traveling to many Caribbean Islands in his retirement years with his wife Beanie.

Wayne is survived by his loving wife "Beanie” married 61 years, dtr. Renee' Conroy and her husband Joe of Raymond NH, son Mark Brooks of Dracut MA, bonus dtr. Beth Church and her husband David of Haverhill MA, sister Arlene Gagnon and her husband Ed of Salisbury MA , sister Maria Miley and her husband Randy of Glenwood, NJ and his brother George Short of Byfield, MA. He was cherished and called "Bampy" by his 4 grandchildren: Heather Brooks, Zachary Brooks, Ryan Brooks and Brandon Allen and a bonus grandson Joshua Church as well as 7 great-grandchildren: Liam, Finnegan, Scarlett, Violett, Remi, Finley and Josephine whom will all miss him so much.

Friends and family are invited to come and celebrate Wayne's memories with his family at a celebration of life on Saturday, December 13, 2025 at the Merrimac Senior Center, 100 East Main Street, Merrimac, MA from 1PM until 4PM. In lieu of flowers, donations in his memory may be made to the amazing team who lovingly cared for him in his home from Harborside Hospice, 23 Atkinson Depot Road Suite 105, Plaistow, NH 03865.

12/05/2025

Roberta J. (D’Arcangelo) Grover, 83, of Haverhill passed away peacefully on December 04, 2025 surrounded by family at her home.
Roberta was born in Milford on January 17, 1942 to John P. and Rose F. (Maselli) D’Arcangelo, and was a graduate of Milford High School, Class of 1960. She worked for many years as an administrative assistant at Northern Essex Community College until her retirement in 1991. Roberta volunteered as a Girl Scout Leader in Georgetown, and was a member of the Georgetown Theater Workshop. She was an avid reader, and enjoyed gardening, cooking, playing BINGO, day trips to the casino, and doing crossword puzzles.
Roberta is survived by her sons Warren A. Grover of Newton, NH, Michael J. Grover and his wife Victoria of Lawrence, and her daughters Kathleen Grover of Haverhill, and Lisa M. Paglio and her husband Albert of Milton, NH. She also leaves behind her grandchildren: Shawn Schofield, Megan Church, Kayla Grover Camara, Jadian Howard, Amber Nicosia, Jilletta Jarvis, Jim Baird, Daniel Paglio and Julia Paglio; her great grandchildren: Lacey Stewart, Owen Church, Jordan Schofield, Joseph Schofield, Jayce Schofield, Callie Camara, Quinn Jarvis ; and her great great grandchild Jayden Schofield; as well as extended family and dear friends, Alex Nickerson, Stephen Romanelli and Michael Ge**er. She was predeceased by her husband William C. Grover, and her sister Geraldine E. Cyr.
Family and friends are respectfully invited to attend calling hours on Sunday, December 7th from 2 PM until 5 PM at the Kevin B. Comeau Funeral Home, 486 Main Street, Haverhill. A funeral home chapel service will be held on Monday, December 8th at 11AM. Burial at Linwood Cemetery, Haverhill. Donations may be made in her name to David’s House, Inc., 461 Mount Support Road, Lebanon, NH 03766. Please visit www.comeaufuneral.com or Comeau Funeral on Facebook.

12/02/2025

HAVERHILL – Michele Marie Gogas, 56, passed away peacefully on November 30, 2025 in Hampton, NH, surrounded by her loved ones.

Michele was born in Haverhill; she was the daughter of William and Barbara (Boucher) Gogas. She grew up in Riverside and was a graduate of Haverhill High School, Class of 1987; she then went on to earn her Associate’s Degree in Illustration from NECCO.

For ten years, Michele worked as a Fashion Illustrator at Bennett & Company of Newburyport, designing women’s lingerie and clothing for brands such as Victoria’s Secret, Frederick’s of Hollywood, and Avon, just to name a few. During her time there, she got the opportunity to travel to and shop Brimfield Antiques and different trade shows, using her keen eye to collect inspiration. She was even able to take her daughter, Cheyenne, along to New York City, where they serendipitously met Michele’s favorite designer, Betsey Johnson. The job also brought Michele to her dream destination, Paris, where she fell in love with the city, wandered through art museums in awe, and was finally able to see –and sketch– the Eiffel Tower in person.

Michele went on to teach Fashion Illustration as an Adjunct Professor at Mount Ida College, developing fast bonds with her students. She then worked as a Piece Goods Manager at Southwick Apparel/Brooks Brothers. In 2014, Michele decided to follow her lifelong dream of opening her very own antique store, affectionately named, Vintage ‘n Vogue, where she sold all things vintage, and many of her own creations. Michele was a talented artist who had a very creative and imaginative spirit. She had a vision like no one else.

She loved music, particularly Madonna, Joan Jett, Stevie Nicks, Loverboy, ZZ Top, and Dean Martin; she attended many concerts and she even sang in a band with her friends in Riverside.
She was a passionate collector of antiques, an avid reader, and a Patriots fan. She loved the holidays and made every Christmas magic, with her elaborate decorating, and thoughtful gift-giving, incorporating her artistic talent into cards & presents for her family and friends.
Michele loved her dog of 15 years, Luna, who remained faithfully by her side, a constant comfort, throughout her courageous battles with cancer.

Michele will be remembered as a devoted mother, daughter, sister and friend. Michele is survived by her mother Barbara (Boucher) Gogas of Hampton, her daughter Cheyenne Rain Bergin and her husband Thomas of Haverhill, and her brothers William Gogas, Shawn Marcus Gogas and Michael Wagner of Virginia, and Christopher Gogas of Florida.

Family and friends are respectfully invited to attend calling hours on Saturday, December 6th from 10:00AM until 1:30PM followed by a funeral home chapel service at 1:30PM at the Kevin B. Comeau Funeral Home, 486 Main Street, Haverhill. Burial to follow at St. Joseph’s Cemetery. Please visit www.comeaufuneral.com or Comeau Funeral Home on Facebook.

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