Matriarch Of Framingham Baking Co, Rosanne Thomas, Dies At 89

FRAMINGHAM, MA — Rosanne Thomas, also known as Anne or more formally "the matriarch of Framingham Baking Co." died on Saturday. She was 89-years-old.

Thomas was an Ashland resident and was born and raised in Framingham. Thomas was the owner and operator of Framingham Baking Co for over 20 years. The bakery has been a staple in Framingham and the MetroWest for decades, starting in 1917. Thomas inherited and took over the family business from her father, Vincenzo Bertolino. Thomas retired from the bakery in 1995.

The bakery posted its condolences on Facebook and announced that it will be closed on July 11 for the funeral services. Hundreds of comments flooded the post with customers and neighbors recounting memories of Thomas in and out of the bakery.

"She always had a smile for everyone & always remembered your name. I will miss seeing her every time I come in the door," read one comment, "A remarkable woman who made an impact in the neighborhood I grew up in and the community at large," read another.

She is survived by four children, five grandchildren, two great-grandchildren and one sister.

A funeral service will be held at 10:00 a.m. on Thursday, July 11 in the Chapel of the Matarese Funeral Home, 325 Main St. Ashland. The burial will follow in Wildwood Cemetery in Ashland. Calling hours will be held Wednesday from 4:00-7:00 p.m. in the funeral home. In lieu of flowers donations may be made to the Ashland Emergency Fund, PO Box 112, Ashland, MA 01721.