Alice L. Laffey

SUTTON – Alice L. Laffey, 78, an innovative Biblical scholar, a devoted mentor, and above all else, an inspirational teacher, died on July 30 after a brief illness.  Her sister, Marion Ferry, was by her side.

Alice was born in Pittsburgh, PA.  on December 1, 1944, the daughter of the late John J. And Marion C. Laffey.  In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her brother, John F. (Jeff) Laffey.   She is survived by her sister Marion Ferry (Warren) of Sarasota, FL.  

After graduating Mount Mercy College (now Carlow University) she taught religion in the Pittsburg Diocese for several years before going to Rome to study at the Pontifical Biblical Institute.  She received both her Licentiate and Doctoral degrees in Sacred Scripture from it,

becoming the first woman to do so.  

She then became Associate Professor of Religious Studies at Holy Cross College, Worcester, MA. and remained there thirty-six years.  At Holy Cross, Alice took great joy not only in teaching advanced students but also and especially in guiding first year students. She used her voice to aid and advocate courageously for numerous students who needed that support. Alice held positions on many of the College’s most arduous committees but the one she valued the most was the Holy Cross Pre-Medical Committee.

Alice frequently held fund-raisers for The Nativity School of Worcester, on whose Board she served.   Alice loved dogs and always cared for and was cared for by her rescued companions.

A Funeral Mass celebrating Alice’s life will be held at St. Brigid’s Catholic Church, 59 Main Street in Millbury, MA on Tuesday, August 8, at 11:00 A.M.  There will be a visiting hour beginning at 10:00 A.M.  

The family suggests those who wish to do so to make a donation to: Cummings School of Veterinary Medicine at Tufts University Office of Development and Alumni Engagement 200 Westboro Road. North Grafton, MA 01536 or Gregorian University Foundation; 3220 N St NW #201. Washington, DC 20007.

Mulhane Home for Funerals recommends that if you would like to send flowers to these services, it is best to contact a florist directly.

Local Florist Suggestions:

Floral Boutique of Millbury 508-754-5637

Posies N Presents of Sutton 508-581-4164