Jun 1, 1935 — Oct 11, 2026
Rhoda M. (Boudreau) McGonigle of Reading, formerly of Woburn, Stoneham, and Somerville, Massachusetts, passed away on October 11, 2026, after a brief illness.
Born June 1, 1935, in Somerville, Massachusetts, she was the daughter of Pierre Leonelle and Lucille Mary Boudreau, both originally from Nova Scotia, Canada. Rhoda remained tremendously proud of her Canadian heritage throughout her life.
She was the beloved wife of the late William Arthur McGonigle. She was the loving mother of Dr. Laurie M. Douglass and her husband, John; she was the cherished Mémère/Glamma of Lacey and Sean Douglass, all of Reading. One of five children, Rhoda was predeceased by her siblings Theresa, Lorena, and Leonard and is survived by her sister, Lucille Rattie of Woonsocket, Rhode Island. She will also be missed by her sweet furry companion, Lady Aurora.
Although Rhoda had just one daughter, her love and influence reached far beyond her immediate family. She generously shared her love, wisdom, values, and guidance with her nieces and nephews, extended family, and many friends, embracing each as an important part of her life.
Rhoda had an unparalleled joie de vivre. She loved ballroom dancing, cruising, shopping, and, above all, spending time with the people she loved. For the past 15 years, she shared those passions and many wonderful adventures with her beloved partner, Winson Leung of Billerica, Massachusetts.
Wherever Rhoda lived, her home became a gathering place for family and friends. She was always looking forward to the next party, celebration, or reason to bring people together. She was known for her famous meatballs and elaborate fruit trays. Her door was always open, and those who entered knew they were welcome and would find warmth, laughter, and comfort in her presence.
Rhoda also kept her family’s memories. Through carefully cataloged photo albums, she chronicled decades of celebrations, milestones, travels, friendships, and everyday moments, creating a treasured record of the lives and relationships that meant so much to her.
Rhoda had an unmistakable flair for fashion and style. She delighted in looking her best and was the trusted personal fashion expert for family and friends, always ready with advice on just the right outfit or finishing touch.
Rhoda will be remembered for her strong faith, fierce devotion to family, treasured friendships, pride in her heritage, wonderful sense of fun, and the unmistakable joy she brought to life. She had a gift for making people feel loved and valued, and to Rhoda, each person in her life was a treasure.
Visiting hours will be held on Friday October 16, 2026, from 5:00-8:00pm at the Douglass, Edgerley and Bessom Funeral Home 25 Sanborn St. (corner of Woburn St.) Reading. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Saturday, October 17, 2026, at 10:00AM at St. Agnes Church 186 Woburn St. Reading. Burial will follow at Woodlawn Cemetery in Everett.
Donations can be made as a memorial to Rhoda M. McGonigle (mother of Dr. Laurie Douglass) to Boston Medical Center, Division of Child Neurology. The website is Home | Boston Medical Center Giving. You can also reach out to Jessica Carr Thew | Director of Planned Giving, Boston Medical Center | Office of Development, 960 Massachusetts Ave. Boston, MA 02118, jessica.carrthew@bmc.org
