News Summary
Barbara Alice Fontaine, a 90-year-old educator and Peace Corps volunteer, passed away peacefully. Born in Woonsocket, she dedicated her life to teaching, social justice, and community service, leaving behind a legacy that inspires future generations.
South Kingstown, RI – Barbara Alice Fontaine, a dedicated educator and Peace Corps volunteer, passed away peacefully on October 6, 2025, at the South Kingstown Nursing and Rehabilitation Center, where she had resided since 2022. She was 90 years old.
Born in Woonsocket in 1935 to the late John Nelson and Alice Hackett Fontaine, Barbara spent her formative years in North Smithfield. She received her education in public schools and graduated from the former St. Clare High School. In pursuit of higher education, she earned credentials as a medical technician, enabling her to work full-time while attending Brown University, where she obtained an AB in chemistry in 1959.
Barbara’s career began as a science librarian at Brown University before she transitioned to teaching. She taught at Lincoln School in Providence before moving on to public schools in Massachusetts and New York. Furthering her education, she earned a Master of Arts from Wesleyan University. In service to her country, she volunteered for the Peace Corps under President Kennedy’s request, where she contributed as a teacher and curriculum developer in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia.
After decades as a secondary school teacher, Barbara pursued a law degree from Pace University, marking her transition into a legal career. She worked under the Rhode Island Attorney General and later established a private practice in Washington County, Rhode Island. Barbara had a deep attachment to her home near the ocean in East Matunuck, a place she cherished since childhood.
In addition to her professional pursuits, Barbara was an avid contract bridge player who often competed with her late brother, Walter. Her love for travel took her to every continent except Antarctica, and she maintained a passion for the arts, particularly music and theatre. Throughout her life, Barbara was devoted to the ideals of social justice and service to others.
Following the death of their parents in 1964, Barbara assumed a parental role for her younger siblings, showcasing her strong family values. She is survived by three brothers: Roy Fontaine of Williamsport, PA, Robert Fontaine of Columbia, MD, and Richard Fontaine of Mansfield, MA, along with several nieces and nephews. She was predeceased by brothers John Fontaine Jr. of Marietta, GA, and Walter Fontaine of North Providence, RI.
Barbara’s ashes are to be scattered in a private ceremony attended by close family members. Her legacy as a dedicated educator, a compassionate volunteer, and a loving sister is fondly remembered by those who knew her.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
North Providence Community Mourns Cherished Residents
South Florida Community Mourns Loss of Three Residents
Providence Schools Face High Demand for Bilingual Education
Anna Cano Morales Returns as VP of Equity and Inclusion
Tribute to Constantin Toloudis: A Life of Education and Passion
Beloved Educator George J. Boitano Passes Away
Remembering Leonard and Rhea Mandell: A Legacy of Love and Service
Remembering Dorothy E. Scott: A Legacy of Love and Community
Naples Community Remembers Robert Stewart
Beloved Nurse and Author Jane Frances Farrell McCarthy Passes Away
Additional Resources
- Legacy Remembers: Barbara Fontaine
- Wikipedia: Peace Corps
- Dignity Memorial: Barbara Fontaine
- Malcore Funeral Home: Brooke Fontaine
- Green Bay Press Gazette: Obit
Author: STAFF HERE PROVIDENCE WRITER
The PROVIDENCE STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREProvidence.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Providence, Providence County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as WaterFire, Rhode Island International Film Festival, and Rhode Island Comic Con. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater Providence Chamber of Commerce and Providence Warwick Convention & Visitors Bureau, plus leading businesses in finance and manufacturing that power the local economy such as Citizens Financial Group and Textron. As part of the broader HERE network, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Rhode Island's dynamic landscape.
