Harriett Chamberland

SOUTHBRIDGE: Harriett Chamberland, a longtime resident of Southbridge, MA, passed away peacefully last Tuesday evening amongst family members following complications from Alzheimer’s disease.

She was the daughter of the late Harry and Florence Elliott of Southbridge, MA.

Harriett was preceded in death by her beloved husband Robert “Bobby” Chamberland and her brother Richard Elliott, who was also dear to her heart.

Harriett represented the unique diversity and history of the Southbridge community and was proudly of both African-American and Native American descent.

She was a graduate of Southbridge High School and worked for many years at the American Optical Company (the “AO”) as well as Hyde Manufacturing.

While Harriett was heartbroken after the loss of her husband Bobby, she admirably maintained a jovial approach to life throughout her retirement years, enjoying her vast network of friends and “power walking” around the town she loved most.

After being diagnosed with Alzheimer’s-related dementia in late 2019, Harriett remained committed to not letting this news get the best of her. Under the care of family, she spent her last three years enjoying nature, reading (voraciously), walking with her loyal dog friend “Leo,” and holding court with her niece, nephew, and friends in her 'outdoor living room'. She was also up-to-date with the most recent movies and books, frequently listened to Golden Oldies, and went on many drives all throughout Plymouth County. Given her unique heritage, Harriett proudly enrolled in the Butler Hospital Memory & Aging Program (MAP), a worldwide leader in Alzheimer’s disease research. Her journey through this program, and her inspiring history, are well documented in this recent feature ‘Caring for Aunt Harriett’ by Butler Hospital.

Harriett can be best remembered for her quick-witted sense of humor and her love and commitment to others. In a final selfless act, Harriett committed her brain as a donation to furthering Alzheimer’s research. Her husband Bobby was the 'love of her life'. They adored each other dearly, and she will rest in peace with him at Oakridge Cemetery after September 15th, alongside her beloved parents, grandparents, and other family members.   

The family asks that in remembrance of Harriett, a gift to Butler Hospital’s Memory and Aging Program at https://foundation.butler.org in her name. There’s a “Donate” link to follow and space to write a note of fondness.

Belanger Bullard Funeral Home is directing arrangements. An online guestbook is available at www.BelangerFuneralHome.com

Location of Harriett's resting place located at Oak Ridge Cemetery Off of Main St. Southbridge, MA Take Everette St. next to the post office, go past YMCA entrance and the next left is Oakridge Ave (you cannot see the cemetery) Enter the cemetery, you will pass the white barn on your right side, take the 3 road on your right. Stop at the tree.  Her grave is located in the 3^rd row from the street on the left-hand side 3 graves in from the left.