Olive Pauline Wilder

Olive Pauline (Lawson) Wilder, 92, of Westfield, Massachusetts, passed away peacefully on June 5, 2025, surrounded by her loving family. Born in Auburn, MA, on December 15, 1932, she was the beloved daughter of the late George Lawson, Sr. and Olive (Mondor) Lawson. Olive earned her associate’s degree in business administration and went on to lead a life defined by creativity, dedication, and service to her family and community. A devoted wife and mother, Olive’s life was marked by her entrepreneurial spirit and artistic talent. She owned and operated her own hair salon and cake decorating businesses, won awards for her expert sewing and clothing design, and was a bowling league champion. Olive had a passion for craftsmanship—creating beautiful stained-glass artwork and completing numerous home renovation and construction projects. She was a devoted member of St. Mary’s Church in Westfield and an active participant in the Westfield Woman’s Club. Throughout her life, Olive contributed generously to numerous local initiatives, always seeking ways to support her community. A true adventurer at heart, Olive loved to travel and cherished vacations with her family. She worked tirelessly across many roles, culminating in a decade of service as a Security Officer at Westfield State University. Olive was predeceased by her parents and her beloved husband, John Frederick Wilder, Sr. She leaves behind a legacy of love and strength through her children: her son, John Frederick Wilder, Jr. of Westfield, MA; and her daughters, Sharon A. Wilder of Florida and Heather L. Regan (Thomas F. Regan, Jr.) of Westfield, MA. Two sisters: Sandra Heath of Conway, MA and Marilyn Wilder of Auburn, MA. And, a grandson, Ryan Regan and family of FL. In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation to a local animal shelter in her honor, reflecting her lifelong love for animals and her compassionate spirit. Funeral services were private at the request of the family. New England Funeral & Cremation Center, 25 Mill Street, Springfield, MA 01108. Has been entrusted with the arrangements. For expressions of sympathy and to share memories, please visit Olive’s memorial page at www.nefcc.net.

Olive Pauline Wilder

December 15, 1932 - June 5, 2025