Each of her five children carries a different piece of her story. Together, those pieces reflect a woman of resilience, humility, determination, humor, and unwavering belief in the importance of learning and becoming. This foundation was created not only to honor what she accomplished, but who she was and how she made others feel: capable, supported, and loved. It exists so that her story can continue through the lives of students pursuing education against difficult odds. Through them, her legacy lives forward.
We hope this foundation reminds others of what Mom taught us:
Dreams are always worth pursuing.
She Left a Legacy of Hope
The greatest lesson Mom gave us was that a meaningful life is built through love, perseverance, generosity, and belief in others.
Patty Laverdure
She Taught Us Perseverance
Mom taught us that difficult circumstances were never a reason to stop moving forward. Through life’s challenges, disappointments, sacrifices, and responsibilities, she continued to persevere quietly and steadily. She showed us that strength is often found not in dramatic moments, but in continuing forward one day at a time.Karen Roberge
She Believed Learning Never Ends
Mom believed deeply in lifelong learning. She was curious about people, ideas, and the world around her. She taught us that education was not simply about degrees or classrooms, but about growth, possibility, and becoming more than you believed you could be. She reminded us that it is never too late to pursue a dream.
Edward Roberge
She Made People Feel Valued
One of Mom’s greatest gifts was the way she made people feel seen and important. Whether family, friends, neighbors, or strangers, she offered encouragement freely and celebrated the successes of others with genuine joy. She believed people could do hard things, often long before they believed it themselves.
Michele Roberge
She Showed Us Quiet Courage
Mom faced life with humility and grace. She did not seek recognition or attention, yet her courage shaped all of us. She taught us that courage is often quiet: showing up, caring for others, continuing despite fear or uncertainty, and holding onto hope during difficult seasons.
Annette Roberge
Great-grandma of 15 graduates college at 90: 'It's like being in a dream"
90-year-old Manchester woman graduates from Southern New Hampshire University
‘It’s never too late to follow your dreams,’ says Annette Roberge, 90, on getting her SNHU diploma
Great-Grandmother of 15 Becomes a College Graduate at 90: 'Don't Give Up on Your Dream'