Mrs. Bertha E. (Menard) Florence, age 90, of Lakeville, passed away peacefully surrounded by her loving family on Saturday, November 15, 2025. She was the beloved wife of the late Alfred Florence.
Bertha was born in Taunton, MA on March 29, 1935, to the late Helen (Rec) and Henry Menard. A lifelong resident of Taunton, Bertha was a member of the Women’s Guild of the former Immaculate Conception Church in Taunton, where she forged lasting friendships and contributed her time to numerous parish activities. She was also part of the choir, sharing her love of music and faith with the congregation. She was a parishioner of St. Andrew the Apostle Parish, where she continued her devotion to her community and spiritual life. Bertha devoted over 30 years to owning and operating a daycare, where she lovingly cared for and nurtured countless children, leaving a lasting impact on many young lives. One of her most cherished pastimes was knitting and crocheting, through which she created countless treasured memories and beautiful handmade items that brought joy to her family and friends.
Survived by her daughter Kathleen A. Rusek and her husband James, her adored grandchildren; Victoria Smith and her husband Mark and Matthew Rusek,1 great- grandchild and her sister Helen Correia. Bertha was also the sister of the late Henrietta Duarte, Stasia Perry, Edward Menard and Lawrence Menard.
Visiting hours will be held on Wednesday, November 19, 2025, at Riendeau-Mulvey Funeral Home, 467 Bay St., Taunton, MA from 9:00-10:30am, with a Funeral Mass to follow at St. Andrew the Apostle Parish, 19 Kilmer Ave. Taunton, MA at 11:00am, following a burial at St Joseph Cemetery, 475 E. Britannia St., Taunton, MA. All relatives and friends are respectfully invited to attend. For directions or to leave the family an online condolence, please visit our website www.r-mfh.com
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