Evelyn Ann Maffei

Leominster, MA - Evelyn Cissy Ann Maffei, 64, of, Leominster, MA died Sunday, December 11, 2011 peacefully, surrounded by love ones after a long illness at Keystone Center, Leominster, MA. Born in Germany, on September 24, 1947, she was the daughter of the late William and Margaret Shellman Scheel.She graduated Rogers High School Newport RI in 1966 and Chandler School for Woman in Boston in 1969. Her family and friends were the center of her life and she would light up every time she saw them. She was a devoted mother, daughter, sister and aunt and loved her family endlessly. She was accomplished at crochet and knitting, making beautiful things for her family throughout the years. She was a great scratch cook and enjoyed making fudge and all varieties of cookies. She enjoyed good music, comfort food, walking, being with her family and her hometown Newport RI. She loved everyday for the gift it was and spread optimism and faith all throughout her life. She lived simply and honestly encouraging her family to be the turtles in life. Her body gave out too soon and she will be greatly missed.She is survived by her daughter and son in law Michele and Ken Michelson, grandchildren Jacob, Elijah, Noah and Sadie of Winchendon MA; and son David Maffei and grandson Hunter of Naples, FL, her sister Marjorie A. Payton of Newport RI; her brother and sister-in-law William and Mary Scheel of RI, her sister-in-law Paula Scheel of MD and many nieces and nephews in RI, MD and TX.She was the sister of the late Frederick Freddie Scheel and sister-in-law of the late William Payton.At the request of the family, calling hours are omittedA graveside service will be held on Saturday December 17, 2011 at 11:00am in Newport Memorial Park, 56 Vaucluse Avenue, Middletown. Donations may be made to Warmer Winters, Cleghorn Neighborhood Center, Honor of Maffei, 22 Hill Top Drive, Leominster MA 01453