Natalie M. Huppee passed away October 12, 2021 in Bonita Springs, Florida after a long gallant battle with ALS. She was born January 7, 1945 in Newport RI, the second of four daughters born to Philip and Daisy Dwyer. She grew up in Newport’s Irish 5th ward and attended Newport public schools.
She met her future husband Jack in high school. They married April 15, 1967 and welcomed their son John in 1970.
Natalie was a gifted and devoted educator who spent her long career as a teacher, administrator and principal in the Middletown RI school district. She prided herself on knowing the names of all her schools’ students within three weeks of the start of the school year and even long after retirement.
Natalie received her undergraduate and graduate degrees from Rhode Island College and went on to receive advanced Education Certifications from Providence College and Salve Regina University.
She and her family resided in Little Compton RI for over 40 years where she served two elected terms with the Little Compton school committee including Chairperson. Following retirement she and her husband split their time between Little Compton and Naples Florida finally relocating to Bonita Springs Florida in 2012.
In Florida she cofounded the “Basket Case” a design and creation enterprise where she made and taught traditional Nantucket basket weaving. Later she added the design and teaching of jewelry making. Through her business enterprises she was very active in the arts and crafts community of southwest Florida.
Besides her husband Jack, she leaves her son John (Christine) of Liberty Hills Texas; three grandchildren, Megan, Kyle, and Emily; her three sisters, Joan Bernard of Cranston RI, Betty Grauer and Dottie Barube of Newport RI, and many nieces and nephews.
A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Thursday, November 18, 2021 at 11:00 AM at St. Leo the Great Catholic Church, 28300 Beaumont Rd., Bonita Springs, FL 34134.
Donations may be made in Natalie’s name to the ALS Association of Florida, 3242 Parkside Center Cir., Tampa, FL 33619.
Arrangements are being handled by Shikany’s Bonita Funeral Home, Family Owned Since 1978.
Like Newport Buzz? We depend on the generosity of readers like you who support us, to help with our mission to keep you informed and entertained with local, independent news and content. We truly appreciate your trust and support!
