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Hugh Lena Obituary
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Dr. Lena was a proud graduate of the University of Notre Dame, later earning his Ph.D. in Sociology from the University of Connecticut. Upon his retirement, he was the recipient of an Honorary Doctorate in Education from Providence College, a community he joined as an Assistant Professor in 1974.
An avid marathon runner, he completed dozens of races, including both the Marine Corps and Boston Marathons. He enjoyed tennis, hiking, and travel: in the months preceding his death, he completed a nine-country cruise on the Danube with his wife and daughter, and a trip to the Canary Islands, Spain, and Morocco with his beloved wife, Susan. He adored his family and friends, had a great personality, and a big heart. He was known and admired for his advocacy and support for AIDS patients and his service as a Board member of the Providence Community Health Center
Arrangements for Dr. Lena have been entrusted to the Berarducci Funeral Home in Providence. A Celebration of Life & Memorial Service is being planned at a later date on the PC Campus with details to be announced upon completion.
To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Hugh Francis Lena, please visit our Heartfelt Sympathies Store.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Colleen S (PC `99)
January 28, 2025
Heartfelt condolences to the Lena family and friends. Dr. Lena´s sociology class at PC left a significant impact on me- I still keep the small rock Dr. Lena gave us all on the last day of the semester. It was a reminder, in the spirit of Sisyphus, for the need to persist when facing a valuable, but seemingly unsurmountable task. That when challenges are seen, not as a punishment, just as a fact of life, one should face the difficulty, work hard, and never give up. And that since we all had this small rock as a symbol, we are not alone in this effort to make the world a better place. An invaluable lesson and memory. Dr Lena´s impact won´t be forgotten.
Bill Mitchell
January 10, 2025
I was lucky enough to go to high school and college with Hugh. In between those adventures we had another: a cross-country trip in a pick-up with four other graduates of St. Bernard High School. Hugh's daughter, Jennifer, delivered a wonderful remembrance of her Dad at the funeral this morning. Watching online, it became clear that the Hugh I knew way back when -- generous, funny, committed -- became only more so as the years went on.
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Lynnie Norris
January 7, 2025
Sue, I so remember our days at SMC and when you met Hugh. He was the love of your life! Sending you hugs and love.
Lynnie Lombardi Norris
Jim K
January 7, 2025
Hugh was a good man, very informative, polite
Carol (Aimetti) Powell
January 7, 2025
Hugh was my prom date freshman year at SBHS. He was a class officer as I think I remember it and so was invited to go to the prom. Both just 14 and a little awkward. He was always a good guy. A nice memory.
Rhode Island Tutorial & Educational Services
January 6, 2025
Susan, the entire RI Tutorial & Educational Services Board and RITES community would like to express our sincere condolences to you and your family for the loss of your beloved Hugh. We hope you find some solace in fond memories of time together. RITES is planting 10 trees to honor Hugh's legacy, representing the continual growth he and you pursued and continue to give to others, which, in turn, reflects our shared goals and purpose.
Adele Gatens PC `81 & `84
January 6, 2025
I´ll never forget his kindness, integrity, and class. RIP, Dr Lena. And thank you.
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