Trudy Olson

Helen “Trudy” Gertrude Olson 89, of Braintree, formerly of Westford and Ayer, passed away peacefully after a brief illness on March 15, 2025, surrounded by her family.

Trudy was born on November 20, 1935, in Somerville, the daughter of the late Robert Moore and the late Helen (Kemmet) Carr and her husband Franklin. She was the beloved wife of the late Richard Olson, with whom she shared 66 wonderful years of marriage. Trudy was a devoted mother to her four children: Gary Olson of Falcon, CO; Joanne (David) Smith of Littleton; James Olson of North Chelmsford; and Cindy (Vincent) Muscolino of Braintree. She was a loving grandmother to eight grandchildren: Jon (Candice) Olson, Stephanie Olson, Greg Bulpett, Richard (Allison) Troupe, Christina Troupe, Michael and Christopher Smith, and Lexie Muscolino; and a proud great-grandmother to six: Prezlie, Ruthie, Johanna, Mackenzie, Rory, and Teagan.

Trudy was preceded in death by her sister Joan Whitcomb and in-laws Richard and Shirley Poore, Robert and Hope Olson, Frances Olson, and David Williamson. She is survived by her brother-in-law Earle Olson, sister-in-law Jean Williamson, and many nieces and nephews.

In 1963, Trudy and Richard purchased a home in Westford, where they raised their family and happily resided for almost 50 years. She retired from Raytheon in the early 1990s and moved to Autumn Ridge, a retirement community in Ayer, in 2012, spending winter months at Golden Ponds in Fort Pierce, Florida. After Richard's passing in 2023, Trudy relocated to Braintree to live with her youngest daughter.

Trudy cherished countless summer vacations with her extended family at her favorite oceanfront cottage, “Rest Haven,” in Wells Beach, Maine. She enjoyed evenings on the porch, reading and listening to music while admiring the ocean views and the sound of waves, following days filled with swimming, sandcastles, and beach combing with her grandchildren. As a grandparent and great-grandparent Trudy took pride in nurturing the next generation, imparting wisdom, sharing family holiday traditions and creating lasting memories.

An incredible painter, Trudy left behind a beautiful gallery of artwork for her family to cherish. Her creativity shone through in her handmade Christmas ornaments, especially her beloved angels.

Trudy relished every moment spent with loved ones, hosting gatherings filled with laughter, stories, and shared meals. Her home was a haven of warmth, where friendships blossomed, and memories were made. As we remember Trudy, we celebrate a life rich with creativity, love, the simple pleasures of companionship, and her kindness and unwavering support for her friends and family. Her radiant smile and “glass half full” mentality will be her lasting legacy. She will be deeply missed but fondly remembered by all who had the privilege to know her.

A celebration of Trudy’s life will be held on Saturday, May 3rd, at 10:00 AM at the First Parish Church of Groton, 3 Powderhouse Road, Groton, with a luncheon to follow.