Beverly D. Richard

Beverly D. Hertel Sundberg Richard died peacefully early September 22, 2026 at Quabbin Valley Healthcare in Athol, after an illness.

Beverly was born at home in Fitchburg on October 6, 1926. She was the daughter of Frieda (Frey) Hertel & Harry Hertel, graduating from Fitchburg High School in 1944. She moved to Athol after her marriage to Allan A. Sundberg Sr. She was known as the flower lady of New Sherborn Road. Following Allan Sr's death she later married Aurele Richard living in Gardner for many years.

She is survived by her children: Rebecca (Charles) Gorham, Allan (Mary) Sundberg Jr., Bonnie Thayer, Donna (Paul) Britt, Grandsons: Charlie (Krystina) Myers, Jonathan Sundberg, Christopher (Sara) Sundberg, Nicholas (April) Thayer, and 7 great-grandchildren. Stepchildren: Raymond Richard, Donald (Susan) Richard, Linda (Mike) Tanso, 12 step-grandchildren, 19 step-great grandchildren, 22 step-great greatgrandchildren, and by long-time family friend Ruth Black.

Besides her parents and her two husbands, she is preceded in death by her brothers Harry A. Hertel, W. Norman Hertel, son-in-law Timothy Thayer, grandson Thomas Thayer, great grandson Wyatt Myers, stepdaughter Marie Adamson, stepson-in-law Paul Bastarache.

Special thanks to the compassionate staff at Applewood Home for Elders and Quabbin Valley Healthcare.

In lieu of flowers, please make a contribution to a charity of your own choice.

A Graveside service will be held on Monday, October 5, 2026 at 11:00AM at Highland Cemetery, Hillside Terrace, Athol, MA.

Mack Family Funeral Homes, Gardner Chapel, 105 Central St., Gardner, MA is assisting with Beverly's arrangements.