Rosemary "Ro" Sammarco

Rosemary "Ro" Sammarco, 86, a longtime resident of Stoughton, passed away peacefully on May 10, 2026, at the Boston Medical Center South in Brockton, MA after a brief illness, surrounded by her loving family. Born and raised in East Boston, Rosemary was the beloved daughter of the late John and Nancy (Carino) Messina and sister of the late John "Jay" Messina. She was a graduate of East Boston High School, Class of 1957. She continued her education at Boston State College, earning her bachelor's degree in 1961, and later received her master's degree from Bridgewater State College in 1971.

In June 1961, Rosemary married Michael "Mike" Sammarco, and together they shared more than 60 wonderful years of marriage before his passing in December 2025.

Rosemary dedicated over 40 years to education as a reading teacher at O'Donnell Middle School in Stoughton. Her passion for teaching and helping students succeed touched countless lives throughout her distinguished career. In addition to her work in the Stoughton schools, she taught at Massasoit Community College and the College Academy Summer program for gifted children. She also volunteered at the Stoughton Public Library as a literacy tutor, helping adult learners improve their reading and writing skills. Even after retirement, Rosemary continued sharing her love of learning as a substitute teacher at the middle school, a role she truly enjoyed.

During her years at O'Donnell Middle School, Rosemary formed many lasting friendships with colleagues who became like family and with whom she cherished spending time.

She loved spending time at the beach and treasured many happy years with family and friends at her Cape home, "Roman Holiday." She also enjoyed visits to the casino, especially when she returned home with as much money - or more than she arrived with. Rosemary is survived by her loving children and their families: Michael V. Sammarco and his wife, Mary; Nancy Bouffard and her husband, Paul; and Anthony P. Sammarco and his wife, Kristin. She was the proud grandmother of Gregory Bouffard and his wife, Michelle; Alex Bouffard; Brianna Guiomar and her wife, Brittany; Valia Sammarco and Anthony V. Sammarco. She was also the devoted great-grandmother to Benjamin and Luca Bouffard who lovingly called her "Ro-Ro".

She is also survived by her loving niece, Sandra Sammarco; nephews David Sammarco, Matthew Messina, and Christopher Messina; and their families. Rosemary will be remembered for her kindness, devotion to family, lifelong commitment to education, and the lasting impact she made on generations of students, friends and loved ones.

Family and friends are welcome to attend visiting hours on Friday, May 15, 2026, from 4:00 p.m.- 7:00 p.m.  in the Sheehan, Lowe & Powers Funeral Home and Cremation Services, 115 Monk Street, Stoughton, MA.  A Funeral Mass for Rosemary will be celebrated on Saturday, May 16, 2026, at 10:30 a.m. in the Immaculate Conception Church, 122 Canton Street, Rt. 27 Stoughton, MA. CREMATION TO FOLLOW.

In lieu of flowers, donations in Rosemary's memory may be made to your local Salvation Army.

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