Ava Marie McCauley Beaulieu or our "Mama Bear", of Amherst, NH, passed away peacefully on September 29, 2025, after a courageous battle with Alzheimer's. Though the illness gradually took her memories, it could never take away her spirit, her kindness, or the lasting love she so freely shared with those around her.

Born on September 9, 1953, to the late Edythe Landes McCauley and Charles William McCauley Jr., Ava was the eldest of two children and is survived by her younger brother, Charles William McCauley III.

Ava valued her education throughout her life and, during her time at the University of Virginia, was fortunate to meet the love of her life, David Thomas Beaulieu. They went on to share a beautiful marriage of 46 years. Together, they planted deep roots in Amherst, NH, where they built their life and raised their two sons, Jarrett Andrew Beaulieu and Kyle Alexander Beaulieu.

She is lovingly remembered not only by her husband, brother, and sons, but also by her in laws: Steve and Wendy Beaulieu, Linda Imperial Beaulieu and Ray Imperial, Harvey Beaulieu and Reyna Rollins, Susan Kovach, Ashley St. Denis, Lauren Kovach, Lisa and Kevin Lefebvre, and many other relatives, friends and colleagues whose lives she touched.

Ava's compassion, drive, and generosity were the hallmarks of her life. Inspired by her parents' example of giving back, she devoted much of her career to Harvard Pilgrim Health Care, carrying forward her belief in helping others. Beyond her work, she gave her time and heart to causes she cared deeply about, including volunteering at the Children's Museum and the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation (now Breakthrough T1D).

Her greatest joy, however, was her family. She poured her love into her marriage and motherhood, creating a home filled with warmth, laughter, and traditions that will endure for generations. A gifted cook and baker, Ava thrived in bringing people together around her table. She also loved gardening, long walks on the beach or sitting on the shore with a good book, and filling her home with music from her favorite albums.

A celebration of Ava's life will be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that you honor her memory by giving back to your local community, shopping local or just enjoying the simple pleasures in life like she did. Or, if you wish, donating to the links below for the Alzheimer's Association or Breakthrough T1D (formerly Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation or JDRF), two causes very dear to her and her family's heart.

Donate to Alzheimer's Association

Donate to Breakthrough T1D (JDRF)