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Suzanne Carcieri Obituary
Remembering Suzanne
Owren Carcieri
May 6, 1942–November 15, 2018, 76, of East Greenwich, former First Lady of Rhode Island, passed away on Thursday, November 15, 2018 surrounded by her loving family. She was the beloved wife of former Governor Donald L. Carcieri. They were married 53 years.
Born in Providence, daughter of Ivar and Patricia Owren, she graduated from East Greenwich High School and was the first Miss East Greenwich and runner-up for Miss Rhode lsland in 1960. She attended the University of Rhode Island, where she received the university's first Biology degree and was a proud member of Chi Omega Sorority. In her adulthood, she went on to receive a master's degree in health education at Rhode Island College. She was a beloved middle-school teacher at both Immaculate Conception School and St. Joseph's Teachers College in Kingston, Jamaica and at Our Lady of Mercy Parish School in East Greenwich. She was the First Lady of the State of Rhode Island from 2003 to 2011.
Besides her husband, she leaves her son Matthew Carcieri and his wife Kristin; daughter Alison Carcieri-Cassidy and her husband Scott; daughter Jill Buckley and her husband Chuck; daughter Sarah Compton and her husband Adam; and brothers Stephen Owren and wife Joan, John Owren and wife Gerry, and David Owren. She had fourteen grandchildren: Bridget and her husband Max, Samantha, Chase, Kayla, Anna, Jack, Charlie, Nick, Donovan, Benjamin, William, Colin, Henry, and Susannah.
She will long be remembered and adored for her love, kindness, generosity, intelligence, and wit. She was gracious to all, passionate in her advocacy, and deeply devoted to family and friends. She found pure joy surrounded by her grandchildren in the revelry of summertime fun and once said, "I really am mostly a mother, a grandmother and a wife."
She was a devout Roman Catholic and a member of Our Lady of Mercy Church and was dedicated to many causes, including Missionaries of the Poor and Mustard Seed Communities. As First Lady, she led a statewide wellness initiative and convened a task force for the prevention of substance abuse. She created the annual "Governor's Best" juried art show, conceived a popular intrastate tourism initiative ("Rhode Islanders Touring Rhode Island") and inaugurated and chaired six "Celebrate Rhode Island" balls benefiting the Good Neighbor Energy Fund. She received honorary awards from her high school, college, and the American Heart Association. Throughout her life, she had a profound love for music and theater, which led her to participate in many productions with the Academy Players and even travel to Rome with the Our Lady of Mercy Choir to perform for Pope John Paul II.
A Concelebrated Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 10 am on Tuesday, November 20th at Our Lady of Mercy Church, 65 Third St., East Greenwich. Burial will be in St. Patrick Cemetery, East Greenwich. Calling hours will be held on Monday, November 19th from 4 pm to 8 pm at the Hill Funeral Home, 822 Main St., East Greenwich. In lieu of flowers, donations in her name may be made to Mustard Seed Communities USA or Lifespan Cancer Institute.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Suzanne Carcieri
Sponsored by Hill-Skeffington Funeral Home and Cremations - East Greenwich.
David & Pauline Stebbing
November 27, 2018
Don and family
Pauline and I were so sorry to hear of Sue's passing, our thoughts and prayers are with you all.
Charles W. Yates, Jr.,
November 22, 2018
I just now heard of your wife's passing, and wanted to express my condolences. I am a name from the past from Cookson and worked at Advance Plate in Holyoke, Ma. Please accept my sympaty.
Kim (Rigby) Lennon
November 20, 2018
I am deeply sorry for your loss. I have known Sue since I was 6 years old as being a blue bird leader. Such a dear sweet woman. May she rest in eternal peace and fly high with angel wings.
Maureen Kennedy Lyons
November 20, 2018
May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.
Anthony and Joan Frattarelli
November 20, 2018
Governor and family,
Our deepest sympathy go out to you and your entire family for the lose of a gracious lady. She certainly has made her mark in life and we hope the legacy she leaves behind will be a comfort to you all. May she Rest In Peace.
Anthony and Joan Frattarelli
Arlene Violet
November 20, 2018
We would be hard-pressed to find another person on this earth who was as gracious,kind,and generous as Sue Carcieri. I had the privilege of working with her on some charitable fundraisers and I could not have had a better colleague. Deepest sympathies to you,Don, and all the family. I know you lost an angel!
Allen Brackley
November 20, 2018
Dear Don and family,
It is with heavy hearts and sorrow that members of the Brackley family learned of Sue's death. She will always be remembered as a part of the wonderful days of our youth! Our thoughts are with you and the members of your family!
Paula Iacono
November 20, 2018
I was fortunate to work with Don & Sue on a number of fundraisers for various charities throughout RI. Sue was by far the most gracious and kind individual I have ever met - - no pretense at all. Just a kind loving and classy lady. She set a wonderful example for her family, and for all of us who had the honor of knowing her. Rest in peace.
Tom Greene
November 19, 2018
I am a friend of your daughter Jill and I am so sorry to hear that Jill's mother and Don's wife has passed away at what I consider a young age. This is a great loss to all of you. I am Liz Dufresne's father so I have known the Carcieri's from a distance. You are a greatly admired family. Keep going.
Tom Greene
Suzanne Tosolini
November 19, 2018
Matt, Kristin, Nick, Ben & Will. We are so sorry to hear of the passing of a great mother, mother-in-law and grandmother to all of you. From all the stories we have heard we know she will be sorely missed. We hope the beautiful memories she left you with will strengthen you through this time of mourning. With love from the Tosolini Family
Laura Harrington
November 19, 2018
Jill, So sorry to hear of your mothers passing. Thinking of you and your entire family. May you hold all the wonderful memories close.
Our deepest sympathy,
Kevin and Laura (Dunn) Harrington
Margaret Sitko
November 19, 2018
Governor Carcieri & Family, I want to offer my heartfelt condolences at this sad time. May you find comfort & peace in the days ahead. Sincerely, Margaret M Sitko (University Club)
November 19, 2018
Governor Carcieri and family,
Extending deepest sympathy to all of you during this difficult time. I once had the privilege of being seated at the same table with Governor and Mrs. Carcieri at an event held at Rhodes on the Pawtuxet. Our First Lady was so pleasant and friendly as she spoke so lovingly of her children and family. I will always remember her as a beautiful person whose smile was so warm and sincere.
Rosalie (Centracchio) Greco
Sister Linda Kremer
November 19, 2018
Fond memories of a gentle, gracious and generous woman.
My thoughts and prayers are with
you and your family and with the
Owrens. Love.
BOB JOHNSON
November 19, 2018
GOVERNOR CARCIERI&FAMILY: I WAS DEEPLY SADDENED TO HEAR OF MRS. CARCIERI'S PASSING.I WILL FOREVER REMEMBER THE LONG DAYS AT CROWN PLAZA,AWAITING WORD FROM THE MEDICAL EXAMINERS OFFICIAL OF THE IDENTIFICATIONOF OUR PRECIOUS SON,DEREK BRIAN JOHNSON.YOU AND YOUR LOVELY WIFE SUE WERE WITH US EVERY SINGLE DAY,OFFERING US YOUR GRACIOUS COMFORTING WORDS.MY WAIT LASTED FOUR DAYS AND YOU WERE STILL WITH US.I CAN NEVER THANK YOU ENOUGH FOR YOUR COMPASSION AND KINDNESS.WE, THE VICTIMS FAMILIES WILL FOREVER BE INDEBTED TO YOU AND SUE FOR YOUR CONTINUING SUPPORT. MAY GOD BLESS YOU AND YOUR FAMILY,AND GUIDE YOU THROUGH THIS SAD TIME. R.I.P. SUE
BOB JOHNSON (DEREK'S DAD)
John O'Leary
November 19, 2018
Governor Carcieri & family,
Ann and I send our condolences on the passing of your wife Sue. We are so sorry for your loss. She was a wonderful first lady for Rhode Island. She was always kind and gracious to all.
May happy memories and the love of family and friends help to carry you through this sad time and in the days ahead. Our prayers are with her and your family.
Frank Sullivan
November 19, 2018
Nancy and I offer our prayers and condolences to Don and the whole family on the loss of Sue. She was a great Lady and her Spirit will live on in her children and grandchildren. Frank and Nancy Sullivan
Maria MacIntyre
November 19, 2018
She was a lovely person. My thoughts and prayers go out to her family and friends as they mourn her lost.
Paula and Bill Bunker
November 19, 2018
Our deepest sympathies to you Governor Carcieri and all your family. Bill's mom, Rose Bunker loved Sue and you very much. We cannot imagine how difficult this time is for all of you. May God give you strength and you know that so many people are praying for all of you. Again we are so sorry.
Zallee Rosso
November 19, 2018
Fmr Governor Carcieri & Family,
Those we love can never be, more than a thought away.. For as long as theres a memory, they live in our hearts to stay.
Deepest sympathies
Zallee Rosso
Anne Holbrook
November 19, 2018
Sue has been sowing her garden of helping others for the fifty years I have known her. Nothing would please her more than for us to carry on the fine work. Let us do one random act of kindness each day or a pay it forward gesture each week. I know this is what she would want us to do to show our love and respect for her.
Thank you for all the beautiful memories and a heartwarming friendship.
Frank Maher
November 18, 2018
My deeepest sympathies to the Carcieri family. Mrs. Carcieri was the utmost in class, nobility and grace. I had the honor of knowing her fairly well while she forfilled her role as First Lady to our wonderful state. May she Rest In Peace in the company of our Lord and Savior.
Don Morash
November 18, 2018
Don and Family,
Please accept my heartfelt condolences. Sue was an outstanding person that I am sure will be deeply missed by all who knew her. A gracious woman who contributed so much for our State. May she rest in peace and God be with you and your Family as you move forward.
Nancy Lemoi
November 18, 2018
Dear Don and Family, Bobby and I are so very sorry for your loss. We enjoyed Sue's warm, friendly smile and kind words from our days at the Co-op Nursery School in 1971 to the State House and beyond. Our thoughts and prayers are with you. Nancy Lemoi
Barbara and Nelson AndLisa Silva and Hempel
November 18, 2018
To the Carcieri we are sorry for your loss of your wife and grand children Barbara Silva helped your husband win to be Governor of your state
ANDREW JOSHUA LAWLESS SR
November 18, 2018
I , Remember Seeing Susie & Donald Looking So Innocently Nice ..... When , I Watched Them Paying Their Farewells To The Station Night Club 2 Honor The Band Great White That , I Grew Up 2 As A Little Boy ..... So , God Bless The Queen ..... Susie Joshua 5:11-5:12 & 6:04 Corinthians 1:11:20-1:11:30 ..... Mark 8:28-8:32 .... Matthew 12:12 & John 2:09-2:23 ..... 9:01-9:02 & 9:20 ......
Joanne Gilden
November 18, 2018
My thoughts and prayers are with you all. I remember her graciousness, interest in everyone, and most of all the greatest love for her family. And I always laughed about her love of yankee candles!!
November 18, 2018
Dear Carcieri Family,
we are truly sorry for the loss of your wife, mom & grandmother. She was a beautiful person and we were happy to know her. God Bless all of you! The Squillante Family
November 18, 2018
To Don and the Carcieri Family,
We are very sorry to learn of Sue's passing. You and Sue have been, and will always be, examples to all of us for strength, kindness and family values. Peter and Jody Gill
David & Margaret Cerullo
November 18, 2018
Don, Matt, Aly, Jill and Sarah and Steve, Joan, John, Gerri and David To the entire-family- She was an inspiration for us all. But you know that. Her untimely passing devastates us to our core.And you know that. She was such a force for all that is good and proper in our lives. She loved all unconditionally as she loved life with a passion that at times took ones breadth away. I am so glad that we had her in our lives for the time that we did. She left the world a better place than she found it and we loved her for that. May you find solace, may you find peace in knowing these things as we remember this remarkable lady.
Mark Thompson
November 18, 2018
The very definition of grace.
Donna Rice
November 18, 2018
Don,girls and family;
We are so sorry for your loss. Sue always had a big hug for Cliff. A beautiful lady. She will be missed. May your wonderful memories help you to get through this difficult time.
Much love,
Cliff and Donna Rice
John Sauro
November 18, 2018
To Governor Carcieri and Family,
I am truly sorry for the loss of Mrs. Carcieri. A class act family, it was a pleasure to know Mrs. Carcieri and the entire family. God will carry you in this difficult time. We will continue to pray for God to comfort you all.
Robert Burns
November 17, 2018
Dear Don and Family, In my living room is the most wonderful photo of you, Sue, and me at a function at your home and every time I look at it I am blest. Indeed, you are two of the most important people in my life because you ever remind me of the Sacrament of Marriage and the distinct dignity of husband and wife. It is something I have pondered for a long time and I thank God for you both and your loving witness to me and countless thousands who know you. I shall ever recall how you both stood by me when my Mother died and how she told everyone whom she knew that you can't make it to Heaven without voting for Don Carcieri! ))) I know how much she admired you both and I am certain Sue and my Mom are rejoicing at the Beatific vision. God bless you and your family as you mourn for Sue and I know Sue will be a loving and effective advocate for you all, for us all in Heaven. May her soul rest in eternal peace~ Amen~ Love & Prayers Always~ Bobby Burns P.S. The Burns' and the Carcieris' go way back in East Greenwich and we always think of you as "family."
Dan & Joan Libutti
November 17, 2018
It was a pleasure knowing this lovely, gracious lady. To Don and family we send our deepest sympathy, and prayers to soothe your saddened hearts.
Dianne Wilkie
November 17, 2018
A lovely and gracious person. I had the pleasure of meeting with her on a few occasions promoting health initiatives for the state of RI while Wellness and Safety Manager at Amica Insurance Company. A fond memory was attending the Christmas RI Philharmonic concert at URI Ryan Center where the Governor aand she with their family led us in singing Christmas carols. Thank you for being our First Lady!
Bill HABERSHAW
November 17, 2018
Governor & family as a capital police officer I had the pleasure of having many conversations with the first lady & many other family members a true loving family. God Bless
Jan McIntyre-Ba
November 17, 2018
I never met Mrs. Carcieri, but after reading about her, I truly wish I had. I am so sorry for your loss, and hope your good memories of time together will sustain you until you all meet again.
Francine Vinacco
November 17, 2018
I never had the pleasure of meeting Mrs. Carcieri.
I admired her kindness , compassion for others & her sincerity.
She will be missed.
CLAUDIA & BOB PERRY
November 17, 2018
SUE CARCIERI WAS SUCH A GENTILE PERSON, SO COMPASSIONATE AND KIND. SHE HAD A WAY OF MAKING EVERYONE FEEL SPECIAL, WHEN IN FACT SHE WAS SUCH A SPECIAL WOMAN HERSELF. OUR DEEPEST SYMPATHY TO HER DEAR HUSBAND DON, HER CHILDREN AND GRANDCHILDREN. WE WILL KEEP YOU ALL IN OUR PRAYERS.
Tony Lepore (RI Dancing Cop)
November 17, 2018
Dear Governor Carcieri, my deepest condolences for you loss. I met your wife at several functions. I especially remember one occasion, which was at the Bristol 4th of July Parade. It was a wonderful conversation, and she mentioned she was a sorority sister to my sister-in-law Carol Lepore. Your wife was such a sweet woman. Once again, my deepest sympathies.
Geri Gulati
November 17, 2018
Dear Governor Carcieri, what a terrible loss. I traveled to Rome with Sue on that wonderful occasion to sing for His Holiness, Pope John Paul II and have enjoyed many concerts with her. She will be remembered by many for her beautiful smile and kindness. I am in Florida for the winter and, sadly, will not be able to attend her Mass of Christian burial, but please accept my deepest and heartfelt sympathies to you and your entire family. God bless you and may she rest in peace. May the heavenly choirs and angels rush her to paradise.
Barbara Ducharme
November 17, 2018
Dear Governor Carcieri and Family-
We are saddened to learn of the passing of this lovely, gracious and caring woman who so touched the lives of all she came in contact with...especially the children and families of The Tomorrow Fund during her time as First Lady. She was a pleasure to know and work with.
Our heartfelt condolences-
Barbara & Duke Ducharme
Paul Vanasse
November 17, 2018
To Governor Carcieri and the Entire Carcieri Family:
Our deepest and sincere condolences to you and your family over the loss of Suzanne. She touched the lives of many students during her career of which I'm quite sure that they are much better human beings for having had the opportunity. May she rest in peace.
Barbara Elsbree-Schultz
November 17, 2018
My heart is broken I lost my oldest and closest personal friend. Many times we would not see each other for a while and we would talk for hours just like no time had past.
My deepest sympathy goes out to Don . I am so sorry for your loss words cant describe. We had so many good times together with Sue and Paul. Great memories.
To Matt ,Ali,Jill and Sarah and your families I am so sorry however I will be praying for all of you .
Timoty Manzi
November 16, 2018
Governor Carcieri and family, my most sincere condolences to you all for the loss of Sue. She was a shining example of what humanity should be and will forever be remembered for her earthiness, true compassion and generosity for those less fortunate. She is gone too soon and for this I truly feel for you.
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