Obituary of Nancy Helen Magnarelli

Nancy (Parker) Magnarelli, 89, of Burlington, MA, passed away peacefully at home, surrounded by her adoring family early on Sunday morning, September 1, 2024. She was the loving wife of James Magnarelli who predeceased her by just 11 days after 69 years of marriage.

She was the dedicated and beloved mother of Diane Hansell and husband Rich of North Hampton, NH, Tom Magnarelli and wife Eileen of Wilmington, Jim Magnarelli and husband Bruce of Fort Lauderdale, FL, Gail Orciuch and husband Dave of Hubbardston, Joe Magnarelli and wife Robyn of Burlington, and Matt Magnarelli and wife Jacqui of Burlington. She was the best “Nana” ever to Elizabeth, James, Krista, Michael, Courtney, Anthony, Nicholas, and Great Grandmother to Finn. She also leaves many nieces, nephews and friends, all of whom she opened her door to for amazing meals and comfort whenever she got the chance. She was sadly predeceased by her siblings Robert Parker and Betty O’Neil.

Nancy grew up on her family “farm” in Needham, MA. She often talked of her fond memories of raising chickens and rabbits and various vegetable gardens. During her childhood Nancy developed a love for reading, a passion that continued throughout her life. She consumed books of every genre but had a special love for reading cookbooks. She had an intelligence far beyond her education which was obvious to anyone who watched Jeopardy with her. She never missed a Sunday paper with the highlight being the crossword puzzle. She did them in pen!

After graduating High School, she attended nursing school before meeting the love of her life, “Jim” and started her family. Nancy and Jim lived in Newton before moving to Burlington in the early 60’s. She built a family home there that was filled with fun, food, and friends. There was always room for one more at the table and a bed for anybody in need. She was an amazing cook and a “foodie” long before that term was coined. Family was Nancy’s focus in life and while raising six kids she found herself on a first name basis with Burlington High Assistant Principal. In fact, Mr O’D actually called her “Ma” like all of the kids who knew her. Still, she found time to be an active member of the American Legion Post 273 Auxiliary and facilitated Bingo nights for the resident Vets at the VA Hospital in Bedford. She also donated her time and delivered Meals on Wheels.

 Nancy spent the last 25 years living with her husband Jim in Largo, Florida where she was blessed with many wonderful friendships. She spoke with love and admiration of the people of the ‘Gulfview” community calling them her “Florida Family”. Nancy and her husband Jim left this world surrounded by family, friends and love. When you were with them, it was a party and you knew you were welcome. Their proudest accomplishment was knowing that all of their children love each other. That is their legacy.

At her request funeral services will be private and at the convenience of her family. Contributions in her memory may be made to People Helping People at https://peoplehelpingpeopleinc.org/