Florence Read

CHARLTON — Florence Adell (Roraback) Read, 103, a devoted mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother whose life was defined by faith, family, service, and music, was called home on Wednesday, October 7, 2026, at Overlook Masonic Healthcare Center in Charlton.

Florence was born in Westfield on February 2, 1923, the daughter of the late George W. and Florence (Bishop) Roraback. A people person with beautiful blue eyes, a ready smile, and an infectious laugh, she treasured her faith and family above all else. She also had a deep appreciation for the arts, especially music, and delighted in laughter and good humor.

Florence grew up in Westfield, graduated with honors from Westfield High School in 1941, and graduated from Larson Junior College in 1943. She further cultivated her lifelong love of music through studies at the Sherwood School of Music in Chicago.

Florence began a distinguished career as the first business manager of the Westfield YMCA and later retired as administrator of the Westfield Contributory Retirement System. Her commitment to service extended throughout her life. She was an active member of Plymouth Congregational Church in New Haven, Connecticut, where she served as a secretary, and volunteered with the Salvation Army, Children’s Village, and Noble Hospital. She was also an active member of the Woman’s Clubs of Suffield and Somers, Connecticut, and Westfield, Massachusetts, as well as a member of the Eastern Star.

Florence enjoyed music, knitting, giving her time to others, and traveling throughout Canada, the Caribbean, Panama, and the United States. In retirement, she made her home at The Overlook Community in Charlton, where she was considered one of the community’s founders.

Florence leaves her beloved daughter, Amy (Read) Bowman of Franklin; her son, Jeffrey Read of Southington, Connecticut; her cherished grandson, Gregory Bowman and his wife, Erin, of Valatie, New York; her great-grandchildren, Kenna and Kody; her niece, Jane (Hildreth) Rantala; three grandnieces; and one grandnephew. She was predeceased by her sister, Jeannette (Roraback) Hildreth; her brother-in-law, John C. Hildreth; and her niece, Paula (Hildreth) Angi.

Florence will be remembered for her deep faith, gracious spirit, wonderful sense of humor, and steadfast love for her family and friends.

A memorial service will be held on Friday, October 16, 2026, at 10:00 a.m. in the Chapel at The Overlook, 88 Masonic Home Road, Charlton. Burial will be held privately at Pine Hill Cemetery in Westfield.

Paradis-Givner Funeral Home in Oxford is directing the arrangements.