“It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Laura Lee Puleo (née Chesney), who departed this life peacefully, with family by her side, on July 3, 2025. Throughout her 94 years of life, Laura was a source of grace, kindness, and friendliness to all who had the privilege of knowing her.
She was preceded in death by her beloved husband of 59 years, Anthony Puleo, her mother Edna Chesney (nee: Willi), and her father Alfred Chesney. Laura is survived by her children Mary Colombo, Carol Keaton (the late David), Anthony (Kim) Puleo, Christopher Puleo, and Tricia (Mark) Luecke; her grandchildren Courtney Colombo, Lindsey Colombo, Kate Keaton, Samuel Luecke, Theodore Luecke, and Joseph Puleo; her sister-in law Rosemary (Brad) Melchior and her brother-in-law Bob (Pat) Puleo.
Laura was the heart and soul of our family – a source of unconditional love, quiet strength, and endless warmth. She dedicated her life to caring for others, always placing the needs of her family above her own. Her grandchildren were lucky to have a grandmother who so effortlessly exemplified unwavering love and support while being their biggest cheerleader. As a mother she was a calm and steady presence, raising five hard-working, compassionate, and dependable children with her husband Tony.
Once her children were grown, Laura began her career as a salesperson at JCPenney’s. For 30 years she was a loyal employee who truly loved her customers and colleagues – if you frequented the Hampton Village JCPenney’s, you knew Laura. After retirement she continued to care for and serve others by volunteering at the gift shop at St. Anthony’s Hospital and later the gift shop at Alexian Brothers Sherbrooke Village. In her remaining free time, Laura could be found working daily crossword puzzles and enjoying a hot cup of coffee no matter the time of day.
Known as “Lolly” to her innermost circle of friends, she was a loyal confidante, a shoulder to lean on, and someone whose kindness knew no bounds. Whether offering a listening ear or a comforting embrace, Lolly gave freely of her time and love.
Rest peacefully, Laura Lee. You were truly one of a kind, and you will never be forgotten.
In lieu of flowers please consider making a donation to Open Door Animal Sanctuary. https://odas.org/donate/
A funeral mass will be held at Immaculate Heart of Mary, 4092 Blow St. on July 26, 2025 at 2pm. All who knew and loved her are welcome to attend and honor the remarkable woman she was.”
She was the sweetest and kindness person I every met. She always made you feel special. Mary Lee I’m so sorry for your loss. Prayers to you and your family.
Mary…we are so sorry for your loss….Jeff and Lori Lueken ❤️
My condolences to the Puleo family. Your Mom was a kind soul, may she rest peacefully.
Safely Home. RIP, mom.
Just heard of her passing, she was always smiling and her contagious laughter, she will be greatly missed. 🥲
I loved your mother, she was always so good to me. I’m glad I found those couple of young photos to share, hope she told some stories about the old gang. She sure was a special lady!
Please accept our most heartfelt sympathies. I’ll bet your Mom never knew a stranger. What a lovely and sweet soul she was. Our condolences again.
My heart goes out to Mary and her family. Laura was the kindest person I ever met.I met her at JC PENNIEY working with my mom.She was always smiling and had a kind word for everyone. They had a wonderful friendship and later she worked at St.anthonys gift shop where my mom was passing at the time. I told her about my mom cried on her shoulder she held my hand and comforted me.she was a class act rest in peace.
Oh…. Lolly was such a fun, happy, aunt-like presence in my life. She was best friends with my mom and dad. When we were a lot younger, I remember sleeping on the floor of her and Wes’s house, while our parents all played cards. When I was a nurse at St Anthony Hospital, I would go to the gift shop to get a hug. Our dear Lord has another beautiful angel in heaven. I’m hoping she is with Wes, my dad and Pat Morris, keeping an eye on all of us!
Laura was a valued employee at JCPenney, always hardworking with a big smile on her face. We had many laughs there. After she retired, Laura was kind enough to include me in JCP retiree luncheons. The most important thing in her life was definitely her grandkids and her kids!
Laura was a blessing to us at St. Anthony’s Gift Shop. Her charm and compassion put patient’s families at ease. Plus, she befriended her fellow volunteers and coworkers with a twinkle in her eye. Laura brought laughter and joy to our days and I will never forget her.