Jean (Sullivan) Ruggeri, 62, of Newport, RI, beloved wife of Victor Ruggeri, passed away with her loved ones by her side on Friday, February 16, 2018 at RI Hospital after a long illness. She was the daughter of the late Joseph Patrick Sullivan and Emma (Lincourt) Sullivan.
She is survived by four sisters: Mrs. Patricia (Joe) Garcia of Middletown, Ms. Barbara Pasqual of South Kingstown, Mrs. Maureen (Frank) Bradley of Shell Knob, MO and Mrs. Nancy (Rich) Gladinus of Edgewater, MD. She was predeceased by her sister Mrs. Arleen Conley. She also leaves her sisters-in-law, Mary Jane Mann, Ruth Cayton and Patricia Hagerman.
She also leaves a great many nieces, nephews and cousins; plus, so many dear friends. She adored and loved each one of them in her special way.
Over their 42 years of marriage, Vic and Jean were devoted to each other and their loving cats. Jean was a true Fifth Warder where she attended St. Catherine Academy, Rogers High School and Salve Regina University.
She worked at various positions, most notable at Chaves Gardens, Walden Books and the People’s Credit Union as well as having her own business, Homespun, a country gift store. Jean was a woman of intellectual curiosity, a voracious reader and enjoyed a stimulating conversation on any topic. She was extremely creative; making her own cards for birthdays and holidays, decorating her home with the most beautiful colors and fabrics, only to match her flare for gardening. Each summer Jean put in countless hours selecting her flowers, plants and decorating pieces. Jean was an avid Patriots fan. Every day in the summer she drove along Hazards Rd. to check out the ospreys and egrets. She talked and made friends with the wildlife. Jean was loyal to her friends and was so very kind and loving.
Her passing will leave a loss in the hearts of many and a sadness beyond words.
A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Friday, March 9, 2018 at 10:00 am at St. Mary’s Church, Spring St., Newport, RI. Burial will be private.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Jean’s memory to the Potter League for Animals, PO Box 412, Newport, RI 02840 or by visiting potterleague.org/donate
