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Dana P.
April 20, 2025
Mary was the kindest person. Many good high school memories of a young women with pride, dignity and good soul. My heart goes out to family and friends, now knowing Mary is no longer with us, saddens me, as the world was that much better if Mary were here.
Wendy Nelson
September 29, 2008
Carl, Carly, Antonia, Mr. Rappa and the Rappa Family
My deepest sympathies to you all for your loss. Mary was my childhood friend. We had lost touch until Mr. Rappa gave me her contact information in January 2005. I feel very fortunate to have been able to reunite with her and to meet her family. She was warm, friendly, open, fun and funny. She will be greatly missed. My thoughts and prayers are with you.
Susan Flowers
September 24, 2008
To the Rappa Family, I am deeply saddened to hear of Mary's passing. We lost touch for many years but she was always in my thoughts. We reconnected a few years ago and I thank God that we did. I will always remember her smile, her love, her laughter and her love for her family. I recently lost my brother and she was there for me with words of love and support. She is the strongest person that I have ever known and will always cherish all of our years together. We spent all of our junior and high school years together and I cherish every moment of laughter and fun. She always had a smile on her face and a heart full of love. I knew Mary for over 30 years and I will always carry her in my heart.
I wish that we could have spent more time together over the past few years.
Carl, Carly & Antonia, I am so sorry for your loss. I don't know how to express how much I will miss Mary and how much she touched my life. She was the kindest, most loving friend that anyone could ever hope to have. God Bless.
Susan Coon Flowers
Jillian Rivers (Holbrook)
September 21, 2008
I was saddened to hear that yet another life was lost from our class. I knew Mary long ago, not well enough to say that we were close, but well enough to feel sadness for her family and those who remained her friends and those who were new friends over the years. I pray that her family can get through this time and feel peace knowng that she is not in pain any longer.
Maria Palethorpe
September 19, 2008
Dear Sandy,
You are in my thoughts and prayers every day. I know how close you and Mary were with each other, I miss her as well. I will cherish the days spent at your house with our children and the days we all met at Roger Williams Park . Mary was and still is a special person who always made you feel good and laugh. Every time I think of her I can hear her voice saying to me at the end of a conversation,,,, "Give those babies of yours a kiss for me"!
My deepest sympathy to you and your family. I love you.
Maria Palethorpe
Pam Marcotte
September 18, 2008
Carl, Carly, Antonia and Dad Rappa,
I am deeply sorry for this terrible time you are going through. Mary was a strong woman and will never be forgotten. Stay strong. I love all of you. I feel blessed to have known such a lovely and beautiful woman. You are in my thoughts and prayers. With love
September 16, 2008
On behalf of myself and my siblings (Richard, Jean, and Karen), we are deeply saddened by cousin Mary's passing. Our prayers and thoughts are with her family and children.
Mary Gill
daughter of Aunt Pauline and Uncle Earl
Vicki Pickell
September 16, 2008
I was deeply saddened when Anthony Jr., an old friend from years ago, told me that Mary had passed away. My thoughts and prayers are with the Rappa and Andreason families. I am so sorry for your loss.
Fran, Allen and Elaine Pesce
September 15, 2008
To my dearest family, some things I'd like to say...
but first of all, to let you know, that I arrived okay.
I'm writing this from heaven. Here I dwell with God above.
Here, there's no more tears of sadness; here is just eternal love.
Please do not be unhappy just because I'm out of sight.
Remember that I'm with you every morning, noon and night.
That day I had to leave you when my life on earth was through,
God picked me up and hugged me and He said, ""I welcome you.""
It's good to have you back again; you were missed while you were gone.
As for your dearest family, they'll be here later on.
I need you here badly; you're part of my plan.
There's so much that we have to do, to help our mortal man.
God gave me a list of things, that he wished for me to do.
And foremost on the list, was to watch and care for you.
And when you lie in bed at night, the day's chores put to flight.
God and I are closest to you....in the middle of the night.
When you think of my life on earth, and all those loving years
because you are only human, they are bound to bring you tears.
But do not be afraid to cry; it does relieve the pain.
Remember there would be no flowers, unless there was some rain.
I wish that I could tell you all that God has planned.
But if I were to tell you, you wouldn't understand.
But one thing is for certain, though my life on earth is o'er.
I'm closer to you now, than I ever was before.
There are many rocky roads ahead of you and many hills to climb;
but together we can do it by taking one day at a time.
It was always my philosophy and I'd like it for you too...
that as you give unto the world, the world will give to you.
If you can help somebody who's in sorrow and pain,
then you can say to God at night......""My day was not in vain.""
And now I am contented....that my life has been worthwhile,
knowing as I passed along the way, I made somebody smile.
So if you meet somebody who is sad and feeling low,
just lend a hand to pick him up, as on your way you go.
When you're walking down the street, and you've got me on your mind;
I'm walking in your footsteps only half a step behind.
And when it's time for you to go.... from that body to be free,
remember you're not going.....you're coming here to me.
Ruth Ann Mahaffey (author)
©Copyright 1998-2008
John Ray Rappa
September 14, 2008
In my earliest memories as a small child, I remember Mary and Sandra entertaining me.
I wish that the circumstances were different and that I had known Mary as a person. Perhaps we would have been very good friends. I think my difference in age and location has kept me apart from my dear cousins.
Please forgive me for being the Rappa that you never really knew.
I love my family and I admire all of you guys, I wish I knew all of you better.
Eric Kiernan
September 13, 2008
I'm a friend of Mary's from high school and I'm absolutely heartbroken over the news of her passing. I'm not exactly sure what to say...all I know is that Mary made alot of people very happy with something as simple as her friendship. That's pretty amazing in my book or by anyones standards for that matter. To Mary's family, I apologize for not being able to say this to you face to face but sometimes things don't turn out the way you plan. My hopes and prayers are with all of you and with everyone who knew her like I did
Linda (Groff) Eibel
September 13, 2008
To Mary's husband and children and the entire Rappa family,
On behalf of the Groff family, please accept our heartfelt sympathy for the loss of Mary. Our thoughts and prayers are with you all.
Marty, Michelle, Olivia & Luke Tracey
September 13, 2008
Please accept our deepest sympathies for the loss of Mary. We are friends of Sandy's and had the pleasure of spending time with Mary & her girls over the last several years. We prayed for years for Mary & her family & we continue to ask for God's blessing for her family. We take peace in knowing Mary is finally out of pain after her long, brave battle. She has been an inspiration to us in so many ways.
May God be with you - you will remain in our prayers.
Kristen Rich
September 12, 2008
Please accept my sincerest condolences for your loss. I am a friend of Sandy, and I knew Mary threw her. Sandy has told me so much about her wonderful family that I feel as if I know you all. You are all so brave in your efforts to help make Mary's life full of hope and love. I know what it is like to lose someone that you have lovingly cared for and watched struggle with an illness. Take comfort in knowing that Mary is at peace and now she will be watching over you.
Sincerely,
Kristen Rich
Ginny & Kenny Grande
September 12, 2008
To Sandy & All Mary's Family:
We are very saddened to hear about Mary's passing. The Good Lord along with Mary will be watching over her beautiful children.
You are now reunited with your mother in heaven.
Rest in peace, Mary.
A Friend
September 12, 2008
Carl, Carly & Antonia and family,
The loss of your wife and mother Mary is such a tragic loss. Mary will always be remembered for her infectious laugh, and her love of her family and life itself. She is now at peace and is your guardian angel. Mary may be gone but she will never be forgotten by those whose lives she touched so generously.
Rochelle Richard
September 12, 2008
To Carl, the girls & the entire Rappa Family,
A common theme with all of the notes is how Mary was a beautiful person inside and out, that is so true, she was amazing always making others feel special and loved. She was also hilarious, thinking about her this week I would laugh at the times we had together, they where always a blast. I will miss her. My thoughts and prayers are with you all. Love, Rochelle
Paul Wyrostek
September 12, 2008
Dear Tony,
My deepest condolences to you and your family..There are no words....
Paul Wyrostek QB
Wendy Yuras ( Louden )
September 12, 2008
To The Andreason and Rappa Family. I am so sorry for your loss. May your sweet memories of Mary bring you comfort and peace at this difficult time. From my family to yours..God Bless
Garry Ricci
September 12, 2008
To Mary's Family, It is amazing to read all of the posts of how many lives Mary has touched, mine included. I lost touch with Mary, but hearing the news has brought back some of the best memories of our time together as teenagers. It is sad that someone so dynamic has left us. Your family is in our prayers.
Mandi Medeiros
September 12, 2008
My thoughts are with you at this very sad time.
Josie Maguire
September 12, 2008
My deepest sympathy for your loss. I met Mary several years ago through my friend Amie (Elliott) Palumbo. She was a warm and wonderful person. My prayers are with Mary's family and especially those beautiful girls.
Claire Choiniere
September 12, 2008
Dear Tony and your family,
I was so saddened to hear of your daughter's passing. My thoughts and prayers are with all of you.
Jack. McCabe
September 12, 2008
Dear Carl and family, please accept our condolences at this difficult time.
Jack and Martha McCabe
Amtrak, Kingston
Michael Collins
September 12, 2008
To a uniquely beautiful person:
"Take her and cut her out in little stars, and she will make the face of heaven so fine, that all the world will be in love with night
And pay no worship to the garish sun."
Michael, Liam, and Tayte Collins
Sister Joyce Gardella, fmm
September 12, 2008
To all in Mary's family: You do not know me. I am a friend of Holly Costa's mother-in-law, Judy Costa.
Through Holly and Judy I have heard about Mary and her courageous battle with such a terrible form of cancer. I have prayed for her for a very long time. My thoughts and prayers are with you as well in your profound loss. Mary is at peace with God and may God also bless and fill you with peace, blessing and consolation during this difficult time.
Riche Stukus & Lynne DeBoer
September 12, 2008
Carl & Family,
We are deeply saddened to hear of the loss of your beloved wife. Our hearfelt sympathy is with you and the family during this time and you are all in our thoughts and prayers. May God Bless
Woody DelManzo
September 12, 2008
My deep condolences to the whole Rappa family. May you be blessed, especially at this time.
Holly Costa
September 11, 2008
Mary. To my precious friend,you truly are an angel now. I miss our talks that were filled with both laughter and tears. Life will not be the same without you. I find comfort in knowing you are no longer suffering.You will be forever in my heart. Rest in peace my friend and I will catch you on the other side, I love you always and forever. Your friend Holly
Linda Daterra-Lourenco
September 11, 2008
Dear Mr Rappa, Jack, Anthony, Sandra, Rob, Paul and Andreason family. I am saddened to hear of Mary's passing we were great friends through all of school together, she will be missed. May God bless you all at this time of loss.
KEVIN WHETSTONE
September 11, 2008
Carl, I would like to send you my Deepest Sympathy, I am a good friend of Alan Jones.
Kathy Crosby
September 11, 2008
To Carl and The Rappa Family,
When you first introduced our family to Mary we instantly fell in love with her, Mary's hugs, laughter, kind words, smiles and non judgmental personality was what made her. There is still a smile on her face, watching over all of us.
God broke our hearts to prove to us, He only takes the Best!
Mark & Judi Moretti
September 11, 2008
Dear Tony and Family,
We are so sorry for the loss of your beloved Mary. Our thoughts and prayers are with all of you during this most difficult time.
passa
September 11, 2008
Our thoughts and prayers are with you in your time of grief. May your memories bring you comfort.
Lori Cheronis
September 11, 2008
To all of Mary's family.
Mary's battle with cancer is truly a reflection of her strength, faith and her unending love for her family. She is an inspiration to many and she is now at peace with God and her mother. My prayers for you are for that same peace, love and faith to help you through this difficult time. Mary will never leave you, she will always be in your heart. God Bless.
Rhonda Fuller/Malaga
September 11, 2008
Carl and Family,
I am so sorry to read about Mary's passing. When ever I ran into the two of you she still always had a bright big smile. Be strong for your daughters Carl. My prayers are with you.
Reid Radtke
September 11, 2008
I can not explain in words on just how saddened I am to hear my dear friend from High School has passed. Mary was such a wonderful friend that had so much to give and such a great sense of humor.
Mary and I sat next to each other for 4 years of Home Room in High School and developed a relationship that I still cherish. Reading her comments in my1984 High School Year Book brings tears to my eyes as I recall how she did not want anyone to write on the first page. After getting the book back from her I discovered why. She used the entire insert to write a short story about our friendship!
I have not found many people as genuine and sincere. She was a true friend. Mary loved life and I will always remember her for her warm smile and hilarious jokes that would make me laugh so hard I would cry.
I was extremely disappointed when I lost touch with Mary several years after High school. However, in late 2001 Mary and I reconnected and talked about old times and how much we enjoyed our families. I was not even aware Mary was sick until 4 years later. Mary loved life so much that it was not even part of her every day life. She proved to me that one can still enjoy life, family and friends and not be overcome. She was an inspiration of hope and grace.
I am grateful that I was able spend an evening with Mary and finally get to meet her family in 2006. It was like old times seeing her again.
I am truly blessed to have had such a friend come into my life and fill me with such joy. I will miss her very much. I send my deepest sympathy to Carl, the girls and the entire Rappa family.
May God open the heavens for he has a wonderful women coming home.
God Bless
Kristen Collier McLaughlin
September 11, 2008
Dear Rappa family, Carl, Carly & Antonia,
My deepest sympathies go out to you and your families. Mary was among my oldest and dearest friends. We met in high school and always kept in touch one way or another. Our daughters are all the same ages and they also played together a couple of times over the years. Mary’s strength and determination were an inspiration to all who knew her. She was such a kind and thoughtful friend and a wonderful mother who will be sadly missed. I share in your grief and hope your good memories of her life will continue to comfort you over the years to come. You will all hold a very special place in my heart.
karen marsella/andrews
September 11, 2008
To the Rappa and Andreason family, I worked with Mary at RISECU for several years. She was my supervisor and friend. Although we lost touch, I would run into her every so often. The news of her illness made me appreciate life in general. Mary was a wonderful person and beautiful inside and out. I am devistated. After a few good cries, I couldn't help but smile thinking of her laughter and silly things we used to do. I know her father and brother Jack also from the Credit Union. Wonderful people. I do believe she is in Heaven looking down on all her loved ones and smiling. Until we meet again Mary, I love You honey.
Donna Gentile
September 11, 2008
Dear Jack and The Rappa family, I am so sorry for your loss. Mary was a beautiful person. I am deeply saddened. You will all be in my thoughts and prayers.
Donna & Michael Grady
September 11, 2008
Carl, Carly, Antonia, and the Rappa family,
Michael and I are heartbroken to hear that Mary has lost her long and courageous battle. No matter what she was going through, she was always smiling and sweet to everyone she met. We are so grateful to have known her even though it was for too short a time. Our thoughts are with you and the girls at this very sad time.
Cheriann & Gabe Ferri
September 11, 2008
To Mary's family, our thoughts and prayers are with you. To Mary, you made everyone who knew you a better person. Your infectious smile, courage, and love for your family, were unmatched. You never complained no matter the circumstances. Carl and the girls will always have your smile and strength to get them through. To Tony, a more loving and caring father may not exist. Your family's strength through Mary's battle, is a reflection of you cousin. You fought the battle together. God bless you Mary.
Arleen Latek
September 11, 2008
Dear Tony and Family:
Our deepest sympathy for the loss of your daughter Mary. We know how much you loved her and will miss her. She has suffered so but now is in a peaceful and wonderful place. You will all be together someday again.
Arleen and Hank Latek
Marcy Black
September 11, 2008
Carl, Antonia, Carly and the Rappa family,
I want to send my deepest condolences to all of you. I met Mary about 20 years ago thru my friend Amie (Elliott) Palumbo. Mary was wonderful, loving and so very funny. To her girls, Antonia and Carly always remember how much your Mom loves you. Her strong and energetic spirit will always be with you. To Carl and the Rappa family there are no words except I am so very sorry for your loss and my thoughts and prayers are with you. And to Amie, you and Mary have so many memories together. The two of you were as close as two friends could be. I hope all those times and laughs help get you through this trajedy. I love you much. Mary will be missed greatly.
Julie Lynch
September 11, 2008
This message is for both the Rappa and Adreason families. I grew up with Mary but I have not seen her in a very long time. However, over the years I did hear about her life and her courageous battle with cancer. I am deeply saddened to hear that she is gone but I do believe she is now in a wonderful and peaceful place. She will always remain in my heart.
Judy Flock
September 11, 2008
My sincere sympathy to the Andreason family and to the Rappa family on such a tremendous loss. Although I never had the chance to meet Mary personally, I came to know her through the love and affection Carl and Laura Andreason had for their amazing daughter-in-law and the love in Mary's father Tony's voice when he spoke of her. I pray for all of them and for Carl Jr., Carly and Antonia during this difficult time.
Judy Flock
Jennifer, Dave, Jack & Luke Montefusco
September 11, 2008
I am heart broken over your loss. Mary was one of the sweetest and strongest women I have ever known. She was a wonderful friend and an amazing mother, whose heart overflowed with love for her girls. I pray that God will give you strength during this painful time and know that Mary is now Home with the Lord and whole once again.
Danielle North
September 11, 2008
Sandy, Rob, Mr. Rappa and family..
We are so sorry for your loss.
Thinking of you, Danielle and Al North
Amy Del Santo
September 11, 2008
Rob, my thoughts and prayers are with you and your family during this difficult time. May you find peace surrounded by your loved ones and continue to feel Mary's presence in your life always.
Derek Cesana
September 11, 2008
I am very saddened to hear of Mary's
passing. She was a wonderful woman
who was a great friend to me long ago. She will be missed greatly.
With heartfelt sympathy to the Rappa family and her husband and children.
Jennifer Perrone
September 11, 2008
Carl and Family,
Words can not express how deeply sorry I am for your loss. My thoughts and prayers are with you.
maureen johnson
September 11, 2008
my heart goes out to the family mary,s with god she,s looking down at you all with a big smile saying everythings alright mary i didnt no you but rest in peace god will take good care of you love;maureen johnson;someone who feels there pain and great loss
Joe & Lorraine Mancini
September 11, 2008
There are no words to express the pain we are feeling over the loss of Mary. We can only try to find some peace in knowing that she is now in the house of the LORD. GOD bless you Mary.
Jenn, Vinny Mackenzie, Nicole, and Sierra Ricci
September 11, 2008
Carl, Carly, Antonia, and the Rappa family,
We lost someone very special, and there is nothing that can be said to make the pain go away, but always know that Mary had touched so many peoples lives that she will always be with us.
Love,
Tara Martin
September 11, 2008
Sandy, I was so sorry to hear about your sister, I know how close you were. I only hope in time, that the pain and sadness, will be replaced with loving memories. You and your entire family are in my thoughts and prayers. With deepest sympathy-
Tara
sheila vaske
September 11, 2008
mary was an amazing person, friend and mother. i think i can speak for many when i say she touched so many people with her strenghth and courage. i was so lucky to have known her. i hope that she may be in a much better place. God bless her entire family and my prayers and condolenses go to all of you.
sincerely,
sheila vaske
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