Charlene M. Leger

December 11, 1949 - February 10, 2022

SHIRLEY: Charlene M. Leger, 72, of Shirley, formerly of Leominster and Fitchburg died Thursday, February 10, 2022 at Umass Medical Center in Worcester after a brief illness. Charlene was born in Fitchburg, December 11, 1949, one of five children born to William J. and Mary C. (DiPrima) Leger and was a 1968 graduate of Fitchburg High School. Although Charlene wore many hats over her lifetime. Her most important role was as a member of her own family. As a daughter, a mother, a sister, an aunt, and a godmother. Everyone agrees that Charlene was a kind, generous, loving person with a heart bigger than her little body could contain. She was a confidant for many, always willing to listen and offer her advice, which was grounded in a deep love of her family that was forged after losing her own mother too young. Charlene straddled two worlds growing up. She was a fierce sister to her siblings, and a fierce aunt and mother. Everyone has their own story of when, where, and how Charlene showed up for them. Whether you were a niece, nephew or friend of the family, she cared for you deeply and fearlessly. As her daughter, I will tell you that my mother's pride and love was relentless and not only provided a soft landing when I took the wrong step, but also gave me the confidence and courage to keep taking ALL of the steps. In her honor, may we all live our best lives. Charlene leaves two daughters, Tina Leger & Lynn Dodds; her older and wiser sister Linda C. Petersen; her handsome and savvy brother Robert J. Leger and his fierce wife Cindy Leger; her loving and devoted sister Marilyn Marino; her best friend/baby sister Jean E. Malanson and her Protective and supporting husband Francis (Stoney) Malanson. Charlene also leaves Lynn's beautiful daughter, Megan Christian; beloved nieces: Heidi, Wendy, Renee, Stacy, Samantha, Sarah and Lisa; beloved nephews: Scott, Eric, Rob, Michael, Aaron, Dean, William, Jeff and Peter; great nieces and nephews: Erica, Brandon, Tyler, Makayla, Aidan, Jake, Cole, Samantha, Nathan, Noah, Anthony, Gianna, Silas, Calvin, Natalie, Carolanne, Madison and Aubry. Lastly Charlene leaves her partner and friend of 40 years, Douglas J. Leger. Charlene was predeceased by her brother-in-law Big Ray Petersen who, sadly, passed this past September and her brother-in-law Donald Marino. The family asks that you visit the Anderson Funeral Home website to leave a message, a photo, or to communicate with family. Charlene’s funeral services will be held privately. The Anderson Funeral Home, 25 Fitchburg Road, Ayer is assisting the family with arrangements. For additional information or to leave an online condolence, please visit their website at www.andersonfuneral.com.