Joyce Bergman Obituary

Joyce J. (Sampson) Bergman, of Shrewsbury, passed away peacefully at her daughter Cindy's home, in the presence of Cindy, Chuck, and Bonnielynn, on Friday, June 27th in the year of our Lord 2025, after a period of declining health at the age of 91.
She leaves her devoted children, Carl S. Bergman, Jr. and his wife Lori, of Shrewsbury, Cindy Ferraiuolo and her partner Chuck Smarkel, of Auburn, and Bonnielynn Gallagher and her husband Andy, of Shrewsbury; her beloved grandchildren, Steven M. Eckland and his wife Haley, of Leicester, and Jason C. Bergman and his wife Rachel, of Oakham; great-grandchildren, Amelia Lou Bergman, Madeline Anne Bergman, and Caleb Jason Bergman, all of Oakham; her siblings, William Smith and his wife Carole, of Worcester, Douglas Sampson and his wife Joan, of Auburn, and Constance Southworth, of Sterling; along with many nieces and nephews, including Billy Falk, with whom she spent numerous hours talking about old times. He would bring her favorite coffee and jelly doughnut for her to enjoy – she looked forward to his visits with much enthusiasm. Joyce was predeceased by her husband, Carl S. Bergman, Sr.; her partner of over 30 years, Richard T. Guerin; her son, Ronny W. Bergman; her son-in-law, Joseph P. Ferraiuolo; her grandchildren, Jesse and Rebecca Bergman; and her siblings: George Sampson, Dennis Sampson, Bradford Smith, Priscilla Mara, and Beverly Falk.
Joyce was born in Worcester, daughter of the late George and Beatrice (Garganigo) Sampson. She was raised and educated in Worcester, and graduated from Commerce High School.
Joyce enjoyed a lifelong career in nursing and being a Home Health Aide. Her favorite position of all was taking care of her children and grandchildren. She also took care of many of her siblings when their health declined. Joyce was a loyal and selfless caretaker to anyone in need. She would never hesitate to go out of her way to help someone that was sick or needed something; Joyce took care of her grandson Steven full time so her daughter could work and never missed a day.
She enjoyed cooking and baking for all family functions, holidays, birthdays, and the traditional Sunday dinner for her family. Joyce was well known for her famous macaroni and meatballs as well as her heart-shaped cakes. All her children's friends loved spending time at Joyce's home to get a taste of her fantastic cooking, and to spend some time in her company – her home had an open-door policy and all were welcome. Joyce also enjoyed visiting Hampton Beach and spending time at Ashworth by the Sea. Her favorite day trips included Foxwoods Casino, the horse track, and the dog track.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital (www.stjude.org/donate).
A special 'thank you' to Joyce's daughter Cindy and her partner Chuck for taking care of Joyce in their home for the past six years. Their love and patience were endless and their mutual commitment to her wellbeing was tireless.
Her family was like to extend their appreciation for Dr. Sheikh and her care team at UMass Memorial Geriatrics, the Salmon Hospice team, and to Sherri Leatham, for all their wonderful care, help, and assistance.
Relatives and friends are invited to gather for Joyce's funeral Mass, which will be celebrated at 10 AM on Wednesday July 23, 2025 at St. Anne's Church, 130 Boston Turnpike, Shrewsbury, with burial to follow at Mountain View Cemetery. The Britton-Shrewsbury Funeral Home is honored to be assisting with arrangements.