Elizabeth “Liz” Prime, 75, of Middletown, RI passed away peacefully at Newport Hospital with Nick, Kiley and Steve at her side. Liz was born on May 18, 1948 in Newport RI. She was the daughter of Elizabeth Mary Rooney and E. Patrick Rooney. A beloved wife of her husband Steve, Liz passed away less than 5 days shy of celebrating the couple’s 40th anniversary.
It was during the early years of the Newport International Boat Show that Liz met the love of her life, Steve Prime. They married October 22, 1983 weeks after the New York Yacht Club lost the America’a Cup the the Australian challenger Australia II. Liz is survived by her husband Steve Prime, her son Nicholas Prime, her daughter Elizabeth Kiley Prime and Kiley’s husband Hunter Sperry. In addition, she is survived by her brother Pat Rooney (and his wife Pam), sisters Kathy Rooney and Meg Rooney (and her partner Ann). In passing she is preceded by her late sister, Maureen Kramer.
Liz devoted her life to her two wonderful children Nicholas and Kiley. Nicholas made his mother proud by earning his Ph.D. from King’s College, University of London. Her daughter Kiley, continued in her mother and grandmother’s footsteps through her love of horses, and many years of equestrian competition. Along with her mother, Elizabeth Rooney, Liz and Kiley spent many weekends campaigning in the Amateur Hunter Jumper Class with the three generations of riders having fun traveling together.
Liz loved a good time. She prided herself on organizing weekend parties with softball, horseshoes, badminton, and other competitive events . She hated to lose at card games, a reflection of her competitive nature. She remained close to many of the crew members from the 1980 and 1983 America’s Cup team led by Dennis Conner. Anytime any of Dennis’ crew were in Newport it was time for a party.
Her internment will be private, but there will be a celebration of her life in the near future. In lieu of flowers, please make a donation to Therapeutic Riding Center, 59 Summer Street, Rehoboth MA, 02769 or greenlock.org.
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