Eileen H. (Vaine) Leclair, of Fitchburg

FITCHBURG-It is with great sorrow to announce the passing of Eileen H. (Vaine) Leclair. Eileen passed away surrounded by love, leaving behind a life defined by devotion, kindness and happiness. Eileen was born on June 8, 1939 to Alfred A. Vaine and Helen (Krul) Vaine and grew up in Fitchburg and graduated from Fitchburg High School in 1957. She belonged to St. Bernard's Church in Fitchburg. Eileen worked at Rogers store for many years and also Safety Fund National Bank. She found great joy in the simple pleasures of life, especially spending time working in her yard, where she could be found tending to her plants and flowers. She took great pride in decorating the inside of her home for Christmas, filling it with warmth and spirit as it was her favorite holiday. Eileen was also known affectionately as "The Cake Lady" to the Fitchburg Fire Department, faithfully bring them homemade cakes each month as a small but meaningful way to show her appreciation and care for others. Her kindness was quiet, steady and heartfelt. Deeply patriotic, she loved her country and was also a proud supporter of St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, holding a special place in her heart for helping children in need. Eileen met and married her best friend, her one and only love, her husband, Paul J. Leclair. They were married on June 16, 1958. Eileen and Paul shared 67 beautiful years of marriage rooted in devotion, companionship and unwavering love. Paul remained the center of Eileen's world throughout her life. Together, they shared a love so strong that even death cannot break it and eternity will only strengthen it. Though she and her husband did not have any children, Eileen and her Goddaughter Wendy had a special bond with each other compared to as mother and daughter. You could always see a smile on her face and a sparkle in her eye being in this role. She leaves her sister, Lucille (Vaine) Carignan. Their sisterly bond was filled with joy, laughter and a closeness that was evident to all that knew them. When the two were together, their laughter could always be heard which was a true reflection of the love they shared. She also leaves behind many nieces, nephews, great nieces and nephews and great great nieces and nephews. She is now reunited in heaven with the loved ones who passed before her, including her beloved dog, Riley. The family wishes to express their deepest gratitude to her devoted caretaker, whose kindness and gentle presence brought comfort, and her beloved dogs, whose constant companionship gave her peace and love until the very end. Eileen will be remembered for her infectious smile, devotion and steadfast love. In many ways, she made the world around her a kinder place. Her legacy lives o n i n the hearts of those who knew and loved her. Her funeral service will be held on Saturday, January 31 at 11 AM in the Isabelle & Anderson Funeral Home, 316 Clarendon St., Fitchburg followed by a burial in St. Bernard’s Cemetery in Fitchburg. A calling hour will be held prior to the service from 10 to 11 AM in the funeral home. In lieu of flowers memorial contributions may be made to St. Jude Children’s Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105. www.stjude.org

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Eileen H. (Vaine) Leclair, of Fitchburg

June 8, 1939 - January 17, 2026