Eileen Castagna

WESTERLY - Eileen Castagna, age 91, a devoted Roman Catholic, whose faith guided every step of her long and beautiful life, transitioned peacefully at home into the arms of the Lord on December 3, 2025, with her family by her side.

Born in Taftville, Connecticut, she was the beloved wife of the late Raymond Castagna and cherished daughter of Joseph and Hermina Bouley. She shared 68 years of a deeply devoted, joy-filled marriage. The two remained madly in love until his passing 3 years ago. Their family described them as one of the greatest love stories.

A woman who embodied the very word grace, Eileen leaves behind a legacy of love that will live on in all who were blessed to know her.

Eileen is survived by her three children: Donna Bello, Renee Gaccione, and Nick Castagna and his wife Roz. She is also survived by her beloved grandchildren, to whom she was known as Mermer: Gary Bello and spouse Krista; Mark Bello and spouse Alesha; Trevor Castagna and spouse Brinn; Colby Castagna; Lexi Castagna and spouse Florian; Marty Gaccione and fiance Shenai; Tim Gaccione; and Victoria Warner and spouse Caleb. She also leaves behind nine great-grandchildren.

She was predeceased by her infant son Joseph, great-grandson Bryce Bello and son-in-law Marty Gaccione. Her children had the honor of caring for Eileen at home for the past year.

We would be remiss not to mention Eileen's devoted little companion-her beloved Maltese, Maggie, who was a tremendous presence in Eileen's life. She never left Eileen's side, spending her final weeks nestled faithfully in her lap, offering comfort and love until Eileen's very last breath.

Eileen and her husband, Ray, created a home on Langworthy Court in Westerly, Rhode Island, that became the heart of countless family memories. It was where holiday dinners were celebrated with love and laughter. Their grandchildren will forever cherish the jokes they played on their grandparents and how both welcomed the mischief with humor and delight.

Their winter home in Marco Island, Florida, was filled with the same warmth and joy. Her grandchildren treasured their time there-soaking up the sunshine, making traditions, and sharing moments that remain among their happiest memories, including two beautiful weddings.

One of the most meaningful chapters in Eileen's life began when she moved from Marco Island to the Sandalwood retirement community in Naples, Florida. There, she truly blossomed. Stepping beyond the familiar life she had long known, she embraced new experiences - yoga, tai chi, and a rediscovery of her artistic talents. At Sandalwood, Eileen found her own place in the world. She was no longer simply known as Ray's wife; instead, Ray became lovingly known as Eileen's husband.

To her family, Eileen was the center of everything. To her grandchildren, she wasn't just a grandmother - she was their best friend. She had a remarkable way of making everyone feel seen, understood, and deeply loved. She was the life of every gathering, the glue that held everyone together.

Her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren remember how she was always ready to dance and sing, showing off her incredible voice even at 91 years old. They will always remember the long talks, her encouragement, and the comfort of her hugs. They will never forget how they craved her meatballs and stuffed peppers - family favorites they spent years trying to recreate, always hoping to match the taste. They often marveled at how a woman born into the musically talented St. George family of Canadian descent could make the best Italian dishes in all of Westerly.

Deeply committed to her faith, Eileen was a proud member of the Third Order Franciscans. Her devotion led her and Ray on many pilgrimages throughout Europe, where she found spiritual renewal, strengthened her connection to the Blessed Mother, and carried those blessings home to her family and community.

Visiting hours will be held Thursday, December 18th, from 5 to 7 p.m. at Gaffney-Dolan Funeral Home, 59 Spruce St., Westerly. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at Saint Pius X Church, 44 Elm St., Westerly, at 10 a.m. on Friday, December 19th. There is no procession from the funeral home to church. Burial will follow at St. Sebastian Cemetery, Westerly. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to the Johnnnycake Center of Westerly, 23 Industrial Dr., Westerly, RI 02891 in Eileen's memory. For online condolences, please visit www.gaffneydolanfuneralhome.com