Edith A. “Cookie” Donnelly, 77, passed away December 9, 2020 at RI Hospital after a brief illness. Edith was born January 28, 1943 in Fall River, MA to Thomas and Elaine (Dowty) Dowd. Edith grew up in Newport, RI where she met and married her husband Harry D. Donnelly. They went on to raise their four children in their home in the Fifth Ward.
Edith worked for many years at the Newport Preservation Society where she made lifelong friendships.
She dedicated her life to her family, especially enjoyed the holidays and gathering with those she loved most. Edith enjoyed gardening and meticulously cared for her beautiful roses. She had a great sense of humor and never missed an opportunity to play a good prank.
Edith was predeceased in death by her husband, Harry Donnelly and their son Patrick D. Donnelly.
Edith leaves behind her three children Kelly A. Keefe (Paul), Stephen M. Donnelly (Sara), Susan J. Donnelly and her daughter in law Karen J. Donnelly as well as her life companion of many years Robert Grasselli and their beloved dog Benson.
She also leaves behind four grandchildren, Paul, Brittany, Morgan Keefe, Keeley Donnelly and great granddaughter Leila.
Due to the current Covid-19 restrictions, services will be private.
In lieu of flowers, the family suggests donations in Edith’s memory be made to the St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105 or by visiting www.stjude.org/donate
