November 20, 1931 — July 24, 2024
Mary Verna (Collette) Regan, 92, of Reading, beloved wife of the late Joseph Regan, passed away Wednesday, July 24, at the Residence at Pearl Street. Born in Hampstead NH, Verna was the daughter of the late Albert and Mariellen Collette. Raised in Salem, MA., she was a graduate of Saint James High School and Burdett College. Verna enjoyed a long, fulfilling career as a Manager in the Psychology Department at Brandeis University. During her time at Brandeis, Verna had a close professional relationship with Dr. Abraham Maslow and his wife. Among her proudest achievements is a scholarship in her name for graduate students studying psychology.
Verna treasured her endless cup of coffee, her Boston Red Sox, and her enormous collection of teddy bears. She will be fondly remembered by all who knew her as beautifully dressed, fiercely independent, and exceedingly generous. She was actively involved with her parish in Reading, and among her joys was preparing delectable desserts for the priests.
Verna is survived by her niece Mariellen Fidrych (Gary), grand nieces and nephews, Collette Musak (Michael), Peter Fidrych (Laura), Rachel Cassola (Matthew) and Luke Fidrych, great-grand nephew Caleb Musak, many cousins and the extended family of her late husband, Joseph Regan.
A funeral mass will be held for Verna at Christ the King Catholic Church, 186 Woburn Street, Reading, MA on Thursday, August 8 at 10:30 am, followed by a private burial.
In lieu of flowers please consider a donation to the All Care Hospice, 210 Market Street, Lynn MA.
