Alice Chassaing

Alice Chassaing, 81, of Barrington, RI, passed away peacefully on Friday, September 12, 2025. Alice was born in 1943 in Herkimer, NY to Amos and Irene (Lynch) Nichols. She is survived by her brother David Nichols, son Andrew Chassaing (Lilia), daughter Chloe Chassaing (Camilo Viveiros), as well as several nieces and nephews and their children. She is predeceased by her parents, husband Rulph of 38 years, as well as her sister Jean Garrow. Alice cherished her childhood, and often shared stories of growing up Catholic in the small blue-collar town of Herkimer. She was an avid lifelong learner, and with her siblings, the first generation to attend college, attaining a degree in Mathematics. Alice had an adventurous streak, living in New York City in the 1960's and 70's with her husband Rulph and son Andrew. Since 1969, Alice lived with progressive Multiple Sclerosis, sharing that it caused her to learn early on the important life lesson of acceptance. A longtime resident of Barrington, RI, where her children grew up, Alice was well known in the neighborhood where she'd go around on her scooter, always ready for a friendly chat. For decades, Alice defied expectations, and was one of the most fulfilled and strong souls you could meet, even in her final years when she was bedbound and using a ventilator. She was not to be stereotyped or underestimated. If you were lucky enough to spend time with Alice, her good nature was contagious. Her character was defined by joy, wonder, gratitude, empathy, kindness, fortitude, faith, and peace. Alice thrived beyond the limitations of body, and lived by the ethos and phrases she liked to say: "Nothing is perfect, nothing is permanent"; "My cup runneth over with love"; "Love for all", and "I'm as happy as a clam at high tide." Alice touched many and had a genuine fascination with all types of people, ever curious to hear stories of your life, to share laughter and encouragement. Her primary interest was being a mother, and she raised her children through her own example of living with love. Other interests included reading, current events, crossword puzzles, Scrabble, flavorful food, dark chocolate, art, old movies, animals, admiring nature, and folk music of her youth. Alice spent most of her life unable to walk, inspiring her to speak up around issues of access, representation and dignity for wheelchair users. She advocated in any setting, from letter writing and calling in to radio shows to participating in a local disability rights group, and throughout her stays at various group facilities. Family would like to thank all the friends and caregivers who visited and assisted Alice over the years, providing essential care and humanity. Calling hours are 5-7pm, Friday, September 19 at Perry McStay Funeral Home, East Providence, RI. Funeral memorial service, followed by burial and reception, is 11am, Saturday, September 20 at Swan Point Cemetery, Historic Chapel, Providence, RI. For more information and online condolences, see perrymcstay.com. A fund has been established in Alice's memory to support people with disabilities. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Barrington Presbyterian Church, 400 County Rd, Barrington RI 02806. Please reference Alice Chassaing Memorial Fund in any donations.