Miss Lauretta M. Guiltinan

Lauretta M. Guiltinan, 91, formerly of 31 Austin Avenue, died Tuesday, May 15, 2012, at Berkshire Place where she had resided for the past four years. Born in Pittsfield on February 14, 1921, Lauretta was the daughter of Patrick H. and Lauretta St. James Guiltinan. She graduated from St. Joseph’s High School in 1938. Lauretta received a bachelor’s degree from The College of Saint Rose in 1942 and a master’s degree from Fordham University in 1945. Her post-graduate studies included fellowships at Yale University, Williams College, SUNY at Albany and Boston University. Lauretta began her teaching career in Wells, New York, and subsequently taught at Hunter College High School, New York City, and Garden Country Day School, Jackson Heights, New York. Returning to Pittsfield in 1948, she taught at Pomeroy Junior High School and Pittsfield High School where she was chairperson of the English Department from 1967 until her retirement in 1983. A woman of great integrity and immense compassion, Lauretta spent her life reaching out to others. As a teacher and administrator, she was a sensitive and understanding listener to students and staff members alike. She was the faithful and gentle caregiver for many among her extended family and friends. Lauretta was a member of Sacred Heart Parish where she was active in the Rosary Society and volunteered in St. Joseph’s Kitchen, preparing meals and providing sociability for the homeless and elderly. In addition, she was very supportive of Berkshire County ARC in their work of providing safe homes for the mentally challenged. Lauretta is survived by a brother, William (Stasia) Guiltinan of Saddle Brook, NJ; a sister, Sister Patrick Lauretta, CSJ, of Latham, NY; two nephews, Joseph P. (Sharon) Guiltinan of South Haven, MI, and Thomas P. Guiltinan of Brooklyn, NY; three nieces, Mary Frances (Molly) Guiltinan of Quincy, MA, Ellen Casey of Hinsdale, MA, and Margaret Simes of Broomfield, CO; and several great and grand nieces and nephews. Lauretta was predeceased by three brothers: Joseph (Ione), Robert (Frances) and Gerald (Barbara). Lauretta’s family would like to express gratitude to the staff of Berkshire Place for the kind and loving care of their dear sister and aunt. The family is also grateful to the staff of Hospice Services of Western Massachusetts for their gentle and reassuring presence to Lauretta. Funeral Notice: Funeral Services for Lauretta M. Guiltinan will be Saturday, May 19, 2012 at 8 am from the Dwyer Funeral Home, 776 North St., Pittsfield MA, with a Liturgy of Christian Burial at 9 am at Sacred Heart Church celebrated by the Rev. James K. Joyce, pastor. Burial will follow in St. Joseph’s Cemetery. Calling hours at the funeral home will be Friday, May 18, 2012 from 4 to 7 pm. In lieu of flowers, the family would appreciate that donations be given in Lauretta’s name to Berkshire Place, Hospices Services of Western Massachusetts or the Retirement Fund of the Sisters of St. Joseph of Carondelet, care of the Dwyer Funeral Home.

Miss Lauretta M. Guiltinan

February 14, 1921 - May 15, 2012