Betty F. (Strules) Leclair

Betty (Strules, Caunter) Leclair, affectionately known as “Bunny,” passed away peacefully surrounded by her loving family at home, at the age of 83 on March 31st 2025. An unforgettable angel on earth – as most referred to her.

A lifelong resident of Lowell, she was born to the late Michael Strules and the late Irene Marzec.  She was the eldest of ten children and a guiding light to her siblings.  Survived by her sisters, Sandra “Sissy” Paradis and spouse Raymond of Dracut, Sharon Paquette of FL, Judy Bearce of FL, and brother William “Billy” Strules and his partner Diane Bennett of Lowell MA. She was predeceased by her siblings Victor Strules, Michael Strules, George Strules, Frank Strules, and Jorja Oteri. Without a doubt, the beloved matriarch of a loving family and will be deeply missed by all who knew her.

Bunny was the devoted wife of David “Dave” Leclair, with whom she shared over 50 wonderful years of marriage. Together, they built a home filled with love, laughter, and resilience—a place where family gathered often, grandchildren were endlessly spoiled, and Disney magic was always in the air.
 
She was the mother of four children: Sara Jordan and Sean Jordan of Pelham, NH; sons David Caunter of San Jose, CA and Timothy Caunter of Franklin, NH; and her son, Raymond “Michael” Caunter, who sadly predeceased her. Beyond her own children, Bunny shared a deep, maternal bond with Barbara Lemire and Brenda Feeney, whom she loved as daughters.

A proud and adoring Grandma, Bunny was a grandmother to many; Sarah Bijeol, Allysa Diaz, Lauren Caunter, Leanna Caunter, Race Caunter, Zachary Jordan and great-grandchildren; Alexia Bijeol-Strong & Charlene Cervantes, Lucca & Eli Diaz, Peighton Southworth. She shared a particularly special bond with her first grandchild, Stephanie (Vinas) Southworth, whose loving care and devotion over the past decade brought great comfort and joy to Bunny in her later years. She was also “Great Aunt Bunny” to several nieces and nephews, a role she cherished deeply. Her warm hugs, generous heart, and sense of fun made her a favorite among the younger generations.

For 23 years, Bunny served as a lunch lady at Lowell High School, touching the lives of countless students and staff. In addition to her work as a lunch lady, she had a colorful career – wearing many different hats as a hairdresser, bartender, bookie, go-go dancer, construction “dust Bunny”, stitcher at Pelham Fabrics and owner of Busy B’s Cleaning. She was a woman of many talents, always up for a good game of cards or bingo and had a passion for spending time with her family, taking trips to Disney and cooking up a great meal.  She also had a deep love for her animals; Daisy, Sweetie, Joy, & Gabby.

She was also a loyal and lifelong friend to her sister in law, Jeanne Connolly & former co-worker Paula Trudeau amongst many others she interacted with whether it was a shopping trip or deep bond with her neighbors. She is now reunited with her dear friends Barbara Lemire, Margaret Whitney, and Jim Connolly, whose memories she held close to her heart.

Bunny’s legacy is one of love, laughter, and unwavering faith. As a devoted member of Holy Family Parish in Lowell, she found strength in her faith and community. She had a rare gift for making everyone feel like family. She formed deep connections with all who crossed her path—neighbors, colleagues, and friends alike. Her love was boundless, her heart always open. She believed deeply in forgiveness, offering it freely and with love, a reflection of the kindness and grace that defined her life.

Relatives and friends are invited to attend her Memorial Funeral Mass to be celebrated on Wednesday April 9, 2025, at the Holy Family Parish, 75 Chamberlain Street, Lowell, MA at 11o'clock. E-condolences/directions at www.odonnellfuneralhome.com. In lieu of flowers; donations can be made to the following organization/church she cared deeply for:  
Holy Family Parish, Lowell, MA: https://www.osvhub.com/holyfamilylowell/giving/funds. Arrangements by the O'DONNELL FUNERAL HOME - LOWELL - MA - (978) 458-8768.

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