Hortensia Habib

Northborough- Hortensia (Adam) Habib, of Northborough, died suddenly on November 6th. Her husband, George Habib, died in March 1984.

Hortensia was born in Santurce, Puerto Rico, only daughter of Lebanese immigrants Joaquin and Rosa (Fiod) Adam, who predeceased her, along with brothers Elias, Johnny, Jose (Pepe), and nephew Jackie. Hortensia's life revolved around her daughters: Sandra Galiette (and husband Robert) of Essex, CT; Leila Habib of Hudson; Frances Habib (and husband Steven Petlock) of Northborough. She adored her grandchildren: Jennifer and Brad Galiette, Andrew Petlock, and grandcat Kismitt.

Hortensia graduated valedictorian of her class at the College of the Sacred Heart, in Puerto Rico, and worked as an executive secretary until her marriage, after which she moved to Mass. Once her daughters were grown, she resumed her career, retiring as assistant international marketing manager at Autoroll-Dennison. Hortensia was a phenomenal cook and gracious hostess. She loved plants, animals, babies, reading, and keeping current with the fashions and the news. Her warmth, generosity, sense of humor, and wisdom will be sorely missed.

Calling hours will be 6 – 8 pm on Friday, Nov. 9 at Hays Funeral Home, 56 Main St, Northborough. A 10:00 funeral Mass will be held on Sat, Nov 10 at St Rose of Lima, 244 West Main Street, Northborough, followed by burial in the Howard St cemetery. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the American Heart Association: 20 Speen St., Framingham, MA 01701.