Mary Willis

Mary Willis, age 69, died peacefully and surrounded by family on Tuesday, September 19, at Hattie Ide Chaffee Home of East Providence, RI. Mary resided in Tiverton with Ralph Willis, her husband of (37) years. Mary was born in Providence on December 25, 1947. She was adored by her parents, Thure and Mary Ruth (Kiley) Johnson, both whom predeceased her.

Mary is survived by many loving family members including her husband Ralph, her son Sean Giles and his wife Jennifer, three sisters Marilyn Saunders and her late husband Albert E. Saunders III, Jean Unkuski, and Arlene Garcia and her husband Ramon, as well as two brothers Alan Johnson and his wife Jane, and Jerry Johnson and his wife Sandy, as well as many nieces and nephews. She was the loving grandmother to Olivia Giles. Mary was predeceased by her brother, Glen Johnson.

In Mary’s professional life, she had several pursuits. She was a graduate of Roger Williams University. Mary was a business owner; she operated a childcare center in Johnston, RI. She also was employed by SAB NIFE Amica Insurance and most recently by Brown University. In her personal life, Mary had many interests. Mary was passionate about the ocean; she loved boating and her favorite beach was Fogland in Tiverton. An animal lover, she had many dogs and was dedicated to their care and well-being. She was an avid reader and enjoyed knitting, especially for newborn babies. Mary also had an affection for driving and particularly enjoyed her sports car. Mary’s spirit was always optimistic and positive, even through her years-long battle with cancer.

Calling hours will be Saturday, September 23 from 8:00 am - 10:00 am at Connors Funeral Home, 55 West Main Road, Portsmouth, RI. A Mass of Christian burial will follow at 11:00 am on Saturday, September 23 at Holy Trinity Church, 1956 Main Road, Tiverton, RI.

In lieu of flowers memorial donations may be made to Hope Hospice and Palliative Care, 1085 North Main Street, Providence, RI 02904.