Rosemary Tavalone

Rosemary Tavalone (Murphy) of Chatham, formerly of Westwood and Somerville. Passed away peacefully on January 17, at age 91. 

Beloved wife of the late Nat Tavalone. Mother of three sons: Joseph (Elizabeth) of Dedham, Paul (Sabrina) of Chatham, David (Kelly) of Westwood. Proud grandmother of Alyssa, Laura, Matthew, James, Chance and Hunter. Daughter of the late Dr. Joseph and Margaret Murphy. Sister of Kevin (Mary) Murphy, Brenda Caggiano, Brian (Pat) Murphy. Predeceased by siblings Joseph Murphy, Sheila (Brian) McLaughlin, Daniel Murphy, Thomas Murphy. Also survived by many nieces, nephews, and friends. 

Rosemary spent her childhood in Somerville, and graduated from Matignon High School and Regis College. She loved children, and became a first grade teacher. She and Nat were married in 1958 on Marathon Monday. They moved to Westwood in 1960, and together they raised their family in a house filled with love and joy. Nat passed away suddenly in 1975. Rosemary demonstrated her strength as a young widow, and did whatever she could for her young boys. She moved to Cape Cod in 1991 and enjoyed both the busy summers and quiet winters. On the Cape, her friend and companion Bill Harney was important to her. As her health declined, Bill not only provided inspiration to her, but also brought her dinner every night of the week. She truly knew that she was fortunate to have Bill by her side.  

The family would also like to thank the nurses and staff at Liberty Commons and the Hospice Care Group at Broadreach Health on Cape Cod. Their care and compassion was greatly appreciated. 

Relatives and friends are invited to attend visiting hours in the Holden, Dunn & Lawler Funeral Home, 55 High Rock Street, Westwood on Wednesday, January 22nd from 5-8pm. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at St. Margaret Mary Church, 845 High St. Westwood on Thursday, January 23rd at 11am. Interment private.