Elmer S, Fitzgerald, 92, of Ashby

Elmer “Fitzy” Smith Fitzgerald Jr., 92, a longtime and devoted resident of Ashby, passed away peacefully at his Florida home on February 27, 2026. Born and raised in Leominster, Elmer was the son of the late Elmer Sr and Geraldine Fitzgerald. He graduated from Leominster High School and proudly served his country in the United States Army. He carried that sense of duty and pride with him throughout his life. Following in his father’s footsteps, he worked the family Fitzgerald Fruit Farm apple orchard in Leominster. He later met the love of his life, Ann Louise Clay of Ashby. They were married in 1968 and built a life grounded in love, faith, hard work, and deep devotion to family. Together they continued his passion for apple farming by founding Merry Mac Orchards in Ashby, where he worked faithfully for over three decades. Many will remember him on his tractor — a machine he admired endlessly. His fascination with tractors of all kinds was legendary and remained a source of joy and conversation throughout his life. Elmer’s commitment to service extended well beyond his orchards. Beginning in 1964, he was a proud and active member of the Ashby Fire Department for 52 years, serving 18 years as Chief. As Chief, he guided the department with steady leadership, support, and mentored generations of firefighters. His dedication to the safety and well-being of the community he loved and served was unwavering. Elmer loved our small town of Ashby. Those who knew Elmer knew he was a simple man. He loved life, God, his family, his friends, fire departments, apple farming, traveling and camping, eating home cooked meals, jelly donuts, tractors, blue grass festivals and the Deerfield NH Fair. In his later years, Elmer traveled the country in his camper, stopping at many blue grass festivals and tractor shows along the way. He was the epitome of living life to the fullest. He loved well and was well loved. He leaves his sons, Bradford C. Fitzgerald and his wife, Carol, Kim J. Fors and his wife, Nancy and his daughter-in-law Joyce Fors all of Ashby; his sister Janice Blaikie of Pinellas Park, FL; his grandchildren Jake, Madison, Melissa, Derick, Micaela and Bryan; and nine great grandchildren. The family would like to extend their heartfelt thanks to the many healthcare workers who cared for Elmer, to hospice, and with profound gratitude to Hertha Diamond in Florida who provided constant care, attention and love. Your kindness, compassion, and friendship meant more than words can say. You are an angel on earth. In lieu of flowers, donations in Elmer’s memory may be made to the Ashby Fire Department at 1093 Main Street, Ashby, MA 01431 or the Ashby Congregational Church at 21 New Ipswich Road, Ashby, MA 01431. Elmer’s family will receive relatives and friend at calling hours from 4-7 {M Friday, March 6, 2026 at the Anderson Funeral Home, 250 Main Street (Rte 119) Townsend Center. Funeral services will be held 10:0 AM Saturday, March 7, 2026 in the Ashby Congregational Church, 21 New Ipswich Road, Ashby. Spring interment will be in Glenwood Cemetery, Ashby.

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Elmer S, Fitzgerald, 92, of Ashby

May 20, 1933 - February 27, 2026