Leominster, MA – Beverly Jean Durnakowski, 86, passed away peacefully on July 10, 2026, surrounded by the love of her family.
She was born on July 12, 1939, in Fair Haven, Vermont, to Jack Grant and Helen Maynard. Throughout her life, Beverly was known for her kindness, strength, and unwavering love for her family. She found joy in life’s simple pleasures, especially spending time with those she loved, gardening, and preparing delicious meals and desserts for family and friends to enjoy.
Beverly dedicated many years of service to Amherst College, where she formed lasting friendships and was admired for her hardworking nature and warm spirit. In her free time, she found great joy in music, loved to sing, and rarely passed up an opportunity to dance. Her love of music and dancing brought happiness to those around her and reflected the joyful spirit with which she lived her life. Whether tending her garden, sharing a favorite song, or gathering loved ones around the table, Beverly’s warmth made everyone feel welcome and cared for.
Beverly was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Stanley Durnakowski; her brother, Edward Grant; and her parents, Jack Grant and Helen Maynard.
She is lovingly survived by her daughters, Darlene Walker and her husband, Robert; Lisa Durnakowski; Michele O’Donnell and her husband, Richard; and Jennifer Helbing and her husband, Eric.
She also leaves behind her cherished grandchildren: Ashlee Perrone and her husband, Ryan; David Walker; Daniel Gallant; Linwood Gallant and his wife, Kelly; and Cody, Ali, and Matthew Dickinson. Beverly was also blessed with her beloved great-grandchildren: Asher, Ayla, Kyle, and Arden Gallant. She is further survived by her sisters, Doris Curley and Rhonda Ferrari; her brothers, Jack Grant and Harry Grant; as well as many nieces, nephews, extended family members, and dear friends who will miss her deeply.
The family extends their heartfelt gratitude to everyone who cared for Beverly, especially the hospice team who provided comfort, compassion, and support during her final days. Your kindness brought great comfort to both her and our family.
Though our hearts are broken, we find comfort in knowing that Mom is now at peace. Her love, gentle spirit, beautiful voice, joyful love of music and dancing, and the countless memories she created will remain in our hearts forever.
Forever loved, forever remembered
Visitation will be held Thursday, July 16, 2026 from 10:00 a.m. to 11:00am on at Douglas Funeral Home, 87 North Pleasant Street, Amherst, Massachusetts.
A graveside service and interment will follow at St. Joseph Cemetery on Poquonock Avenue in Windsor, Connecticut.
Memorial guestbook can be found at www.douglassfuneral.com
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