Denise M.

Tiro

It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Denise Marie Tiro, beloved wife, mother, sister, and friend, who departed this life peacefully on February 28, 2026 at Massachusetts General Hospital in Boston after a courageous 13-month battle with leukemia. Denise was 63 years old.
Born on April 25, 1962, Denise was raised in Chelsea where she attended the local schools and proudly graduated from Chelsea High School. Denise pursued her passion for education at Salem State College and later attained a master's degree in reading from American International College.
On November 24, 1990, Denise married her devoted husband, Robert A. Tiro, and together they built a loving home in Wakefield where they raised their three children: Robert, Rose, and Brooke. Denise was profoundly dedicated to her family, creating cherished memories during family trips to Ogunquit, Maine, and in cultivating her beloved flower and vegetable gardens. She found joy in listening to country music, sharing in the excitement of Red Sox games, and supporting the New England Patriots.
Denise began her career as a teacher with the Chelsea Public Schools and, after taking time to raise her children, returned to Chelsea as a reading teacher at the Hooks School and subsequently at the Early Learning Center. Her commitment to education thrived as a member of the Chelsea Teachers Union, where she served as a board member and union representative.  Denise touched the lives of many students as a passionate and committed educator and cherished her relationships with her colleagues.
Denise was predeceased by her parents Edmund and Rose (May) Mickiewicz and her father-in-law, Anthony "Chubby" Tiro.
Denise's loving spirit will be deeply missed, but she leaves behind a legacy of warmth and compassion. She is survived by her loving husband of 35 years, Robert "Robby" A. Tiro, and their children: Robert "Rob" Tiro of Greenville, SC; Rose "Rosie" Nekolopoulos and her husband, Anthony; and Brooke Tiro, all of Wakefield. Additionally, she is survived by her mother-in-law, Anna (Damiano) Tiro of Saugus; her dear sisters, Linda Mendonca and her husband, George, of Peabody; Debra Zardas and her husband, Gary, of Wakefield; her sister-in-law, Robin Tiro-Kinnon of Medway; and her brother-in-law, Anthony "Tony" Tiro and his wife, Lisa, of Saugus; as well as her cherished nieces and nephews: Dayna LeBel, Bryan Mendonca, Melissa Ricci, Christopher Zardas,   Anthony "TJ" Tiro, Gianna Ajadi, Bria Tiro, and Stephen and Nicholas Kinnon.  Denise is also survived by many extended family members and countless friends.
The Tiro family would like to extend a special thank you to the incredibly competent and compassionate nurses of Lunder 10 who cared so well for Denise and with whom Denise created many new friendships.

Relatives and friends are invited to attend calling hours for Denise on Saturday, March 7, from 9:00 A.M. to 11:00 A.M. at the Welsh Funeral Home located at 718 Broadway, Chelsea, MA 02150. Following the calling hours, services will be held at 11:00 A.M. in the funeral home. Interment will take place at Woodlawn Cemetery in Everett.
In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made in Denise's name to the American Cancer Society, PO Box 1120, Framingham, MA 01701, or through their website at https://donate.cancer.org/ .
Denise will be remembered for her unwavering love for her family, her dedication to her profession, and her vibrant spirit that touched the lives of all who knew her. She will forever remain in our hearts.