Sunderland, MA – Hanna (Sierecka) Thurston, born December 25, 1931, in Wysokie Mazowieckie, Poland, passed away peacefully on January 28, 2026 after a life defined by courage, hard work, and deep devotion to family.
Hanna pursued education in the medical field and worked as a physical therapist early in her career. Hanna emigrated to the United States in June 1971 from Warsaw, Poland. She loved America and appreciated the opportunities in the United States.
Hanna found her calling as a beauty adviser for Lancôme Cosmetics at Steiger’s in Hadley, where she became beloved by her clients. She took great joy in helping people feel beautiful and confident, forming lasting relationships through her warmth, honesty, and genuine care for others.
On December 6, 1994, Hanna married William E. Thurston. Together they made their home in Sunderland, Massachusetts. Hanna found great pleasure in making their home welcoming and beautiful, especially through tending her gardens.
Through her marriage to Bill, Hanna became an enthusiastic Amherst College baseball fan. She was a great baseball coach’s wife who was deeply loved by the Amherst players. They could always count on her enthusiastic support from the sidelines and serving players dinners and team picnics each year. Hanna also enjoyed travelling with Bill throughout the United States and Canada on Bill’s coaching assignments.
Hanna is survived by her husband William E. Thurston and by her daughter Ewa Kwiatowska, both of Sunderland, MA. Her legacy lives on through the many lives she touched with her kindness, strength, and unwavering spirit.
Private services will be held at Riverside Cemetery in Sunderland in May of 2026.
Wrisley Funeral Home
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