Alice R Bower

For nearly 68 years, Alice was the loving and devoted wife of the late Charles (Charlie) Herbert Bower, who was eagerly awaiting their reunion in heaven.

Alice was born in Haverhill, MA on May 16, 1935. She was the daughter of the late James Michael Rice and Regina Irene (Legare) Rice. Alice graduated from Saint James High School in Haverhill in 1953. On October 12, 1956, she married the love of her life and began a nearly 68-year journey and partnership with Charlie.

Alice leaves behind four children, Michael J. Bower and his spouse John J. Shi, Mary E. Bower and her spouse Kathy A. Hassey, Stephen C. Bower and his wife Aia Bower, and Peter J. Bower. Alice has now joined in heaven her late daughter Theresa A. (Bower) Spencer and daughter-in-law Stacey McCabe Bower.

Alice was blessed with 5 beautiful and cherished grandchildren: Kelsi (Spencer) Obin, Tyler Bower, Allyson Spencer, Ollie Bower, and Tess Bower. Alice never stopped talking about her grandchildren, and her love for each and every one of them was boundless.

Alice is survived by one sibling, Doctor Kathleen Marie Rice of Haverhill. She was predeceased by 2 siblings, Patricia G. (Rice) Goudreault and Margaret Ann (Rice) Sotera.

Over the span of the next 68 years following their marriage, Alice, Charlie, and their family lived in Haverhill, Franklin, Beverly, Randolph, Plymouth, Middleborough, and most recently Hanover. Alice and Charlie made long and lasting friendships wherever they lived.

Alice’s involvement in community service blossomed in Randolph where she and Charlie were founding members of St. Mary’s Senior CYO and where they inspired and influenced countless youth during their most formative years.

Alice was a deeply religious person who performed many acts of charitable giving and volunteer work over the course of her adult life. She was deeply empathetic and compassionate, especially toward those less fortunate. She was passionate about her work at various food pantries, where she found great meaning in helping provide food to those in need.

Alice was active in the Cursillo movement. She enjoyed listening to her religious music, which she accumulated over the years. During her final hours, she rested peacefully listening to these many beautiful and restful songs once again.

On behalf of Alice’s four children, we wish to extend our heartfelt love and appreciation to each and every staff member of the Bay Path Rehabilitation and Nursing Center in Duxbury, the final home for both Alice and Charlie. Over the final three days of Mom’s life, when we were constantly at Mom’s side, countless staff members would take time out of their busy schedules to come and tell us their memories of Mom’s kindness and friendship. Many were left in tears after relating their stories and giving Mom a hug and a kiss.

The nursing staff and CNA’s showered Mom with love and care throughout her nearly 2-year stay there. They were with her until the very end. For this we are eternally grateful.

Earlier in the week, as Mom’s health was failing, we were presented with two options for her. A trip to the hospital or a stay with the care at Bay Path. The choice was an easy one. And one that Mom concurred with. Stay in the facility where love for Mom abounded and her love for the staff was endless.

Relatives and friends are invited to visiting hours on Thursday, August 27 from 3 to 7 p.m. in the Sullivan Funeral Home, 551 Washington Street, Route 53, Hanover, MA. A Holy Funeral Mass will be held for Alice on Friday, August 28 at 9:00 am at Our Lady of the Angels / St. Mary’s of the Sacred Heart Church, 392 Hanover Street, Hanover, MA. The burial will be private. A reception will immediately follow.

In lieu of flowers, contributions in Alice’s memory may be made at the following website to the Dana Farber Cancer Center and the Jimmy Fund via a donation on her daughter Mary’s fundraising page for the Jimmy Fund Boston Marathon Walk, which will take place in early October: