Meredith McAloon

Meredith Hazard McAloon, age 80, of Block Island, Rhode Island, passed away peacefully on October 25, 2025, surrounded by her loving and devoted daughters, Kerrie, Shannon, Meredith, and Kathleen.

Born on September 13, 1945, in Pawtucket, Rhode Island, Meredith was the daughter of Beatrice Luella (Wood) Hazard and Albert Nelson Hazard. She grew up in Pawtucket and graduated from Tolman High School in 1963. With dreams of becoming a nurse, she served as an EKG technician at Pawtucket Memorial Hospital. She attended the University of Rhode Island, where she was among the first residents of the brand-new Weldin Hall. Her quick wit, warmth, and lively spirit made her a fast favorite among her peers. With a chemistry book in one hand and a smile in the other, she could often be found visiting dorm rooms, chatting late into the night with fellow students.

It was during her time at URI that Meredith met people who would become central to her life. Her dorm mate, Alexis (Bolvin) Hazard, became both a lifelong friend and, later, her sister-in-law-a friendship that lasted over six decades. Her brother, James A. Hazard, and her future husband, Vincent J. McAloon, also attended URI alongside her. After college, Meredith and Vincent were married. They remained a constant in each other's lives as they joined to celebrate momentous occasions for their children and grandchildren through the years.

The couple first settled in Pawtucket, where they started their family and began the entrepreneurial journey that would eventually bring them to Block Island. In the spring of 1972, the McAloons moved to Block Island and purchased a charming inn, the Neptune House, which they lovingly restored to its Victorian splendor. Over time, they expanded it to include a restaurant-one of the island's first year-round establishments. By today's standards, it would be considered a true farm-to-table venture, long before that phrase became popular. Her talent in the kitchen earned her recognition in Bon Appétit and Gourmet magazines, a testament to Meredith's culinary creativity and dedication to her craft.

Meredith's life and work were woven into the fabric of Block Island. She built a remarkable career as an innkeeper, restaurateur, and chef, later managing the Neptune House and the National contributing to the island's hospitality community. Her countless off-island trips for her businesses-to Restaurant Depot, meat distributors, tile stores, or lumber yards-were part business, part adventure. She often convinced friends or co-workers to join her with the irresistible promise of a good dinner and a couple of well-earned drinks once the errands were done.

Known for her incredible work ethic, sharp humor, and generous heart, Meredith was the backbone and the spirit of every gathering. She had a special love for Christmas, when her gift for hospitality shone brightest. The quintessential hostess, she made sure everyone's favorite dishes and libations were ready-her French onion soup, steak à la Mama, and Alaskan mint pie are legendary. Long before online shopping, she made countless mainland trips to find just the right ingredients and thoughtful gifts for family and friends.

Those who knew Meredith will remember her for her humor, generosity, and unwavering love for her family and community. She had a way of making everyone feel welcome, cared for, and well-fed.

Meredith is survived by her daughters: Kerrie McAloon and her late companion Rob Weintraub; Shannon McAloon Merkler and her husband, Bill; Meredith Barber and her husband, Robert; and Kathleen McAloon. She also leaves behind her beloved grandchildren-Brendan, Megan, Erin, Ryan, and Olivia-as well as cherished nieces, nephews, and many lifelong friends. She was predeceased by her brother, James A. Hazard.

Visiting hours will be held on Friday, November 21, 2025, from 4:00 PM to 7:00 PM at Avery-Storti Funeral Home, 88 Columbia St., Wakefield, Rhode Island. A celebration of life will follow at her home on Block Island on Saturday, November 22, at 12:00 PM. Family and friends are warmly invited to attend and celebrate Meredith's extraordinary life.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Mary D. Fund or St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, causes close to Meredith's heart.

"She filled her home with laughter, her kitchen with love, and her life with adventures."