Laurene M. Belisle, 66
NORTH ADAMS, Mass. — Laurene M. Belisle, 66, of Westfield, formerly of North Adams, died suddenly after a brief illness on Thursday, May 14, 2015, at Baystate Medical Center in Springfield, with family at her side.
Born in North Adams on Nov. 8, 1948, daughter of Lawrence J. and Hazel H. Horahan Belisle, she graduated from the former St. Joseph's High School in 1966, and the College of Our Lady of the Elms in Chicopee in 1971. She continued her studies at Westfield State College, from which she earned a masters degree in computer science and later went on to earn two more master's degrees while teaching full time in the Westfield public school system.
A longtime educator, Ms. Belisle developed an online teaching program that she taught at Westfield State University until her retirement. Throughout her career she was very involved in Massachusetts Computer Using Educators (MassCUE), which promoted computer usage in education for teachers at all levels.
She enjoyed music and sang with the Westfield Chorus each Christmas. Most of all she loved and pampered her cats, especially Peanuts and Puff.
She leaves her sister, Elizabeth L. Santley of Worcester; an aunt, Frances Chenail of Williamstown, two cousins, nieces and nephews.
FUNERAL NOTICE — At Ms. Belisle's request, funeral services will be private in North Adams. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in her memory to: Westfield Homeless Cat Project, 1124 East Mountain St., Westfield, MA 01085 (413-568-6964). Flynn & Dagnoli-Montagna Home for Funerals is in charge of arrangements.