Regina Mary Toomey

Regina Mary Toomey (nee Sexton) passed away at HopeHealth Hulitar Hospice Center in Providence on Wednesday, November 13, 2024, surrounded by her children. She was 74.

Born on March 15, 1950, in Queens, New York, to Jeanne and James Sexton, Regina graduated from high school in 1969 and from Manhattanville with a degree in psychology in 1963.



Regina met her husband, Richard John Toomey, in their hometown of Rockaway Beach, New York. (He told anyone who would listen that he was going to marry that beautiful girl with the long blonde hair.) In 1975, with flowers in that hair, Regina married Richard in the sort of intimate, relaxed, hippie-inspired ceremony that was perfect for them and totally bucked the formalities usually foisted on a young woman from "a good family from Rockaway."

After moving to Chepachet, Rhode Island, in 1977, Regina and Richard built a house and a family on the shores of Keech Pond, turning their backyard into a sanctuary for the birds Regina so loved. That house was Regina's sanctuary as well: a quiet, peaceful space near water and wildlife, perfect for birdwatching, reading, or watching her children and grandchildren swim. From that refuge, she also battled and beat breast cancer in 2021.

In the early 1990s, Regina began teaching inclusive classes at the Austin T. Levy School in Harrisville, Rhode Island, supporting students with learning differences and their families. She was beloved by generations of students. Her collection of holiday sweaters and necklaces was legendary.

Prodigious travelers, Regina and Richard embarked on multiple cross-country adventures with their children throughout their lives and particularly after she retired from teaching in 2007. Favorite destinations included Lawrence Welk Resort in California, outside San Diego, and the White Mountains in New Hampshire, all known for their natural beauty and wildlife. Regina and Richard are now on a heavenly RV tour.

Regina is survived by her sons, Brian and Chris; daughter, Kyla; sister, Mary Kastoulis; and their families.

The family plans to hold two Celebration of Life events-one in Rhode Island and one in Rockaway Beach, New York-in the spring or early summer of 2025. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Audubon Society.