News Summary
Eileen M. Degnan, a cherished educator and matriarch in Narragansett, passed away peacefully at age 92. Known for her dedication to teaching and family, her legacy will remain in the community. Eileen inspired many during her 25-year teaching career and is survived by her loving family, including five children and numerous grandchildren.
Narragansett, RI – Eileen M. Degnan, a beloved educator and matriarch, passed away peacefully at the age of 92 on September 8th, 2025. Her contributions to education and her family have left an enduring legacy within the community.
Degnan was married to Joseph R. Degnan, Sr. for an impressive 65 years, showcasing a partnership that reflected unwavering dedication and love. She is survived by five children: Joseph Degnan, Jr. and his wife Jane Ann; Mary Degnan and her partner Joseph Piro; Jane Ryan and her husband Michael; Colleen McCarthy and her spouse John; and Michael Degnan and his wife Marsha. Eileen is also survived by a large extended family, which includes sixteen grandchildren and eleven great-grandchildren, all of whom have been touched by her kindness and nurturing spirit.
Born in Providence, Eileen was the daughter of the late Justin and Mary (Alger) Brodie. She dedicated over 25 years of her life as a 2nd-grade teacher at St. Augustine School in Providence, where she inspired countless young minds with her passion for teaching and her commitment to education. Eileen’s teaching career was characterized by her ability to connect with her students, fostering both their academic and personal growth.
Funeral Arrangements
A Mass of Christian Burial in honor of Eileen M. Degnan will take place at 11:00 am on Friday, September 12th, at St. Mary Star of The Sea Church located in Narragansett. Following the service, her burial will occur at the Rhode Island Veterans Memorial Cemetery in Exeter. Community members wishing to pay their respects can attend the visitation on Thursday, September 11th, from 4:00 pm to 7:00 pm at the Avery-Storti Funeral Home, 88 Columbia Street, Wakefield.
Legacy and Community Impact
In addition to her role as a devoted wife and mother, Eileen was known for her strong family values and her deep commitment to her faith. She was the sister of the late Very Reverend Justin Brodie O.P. and Marie Bisson, further solidifying a family legacy rooted in community and service.
Throughout her life, Eileen contributed not only to the education of her students but also to the spiritual and moral development of her family and friends. Her understanding, compassion, and community spirit will be cherished by all who knew her.
Memorial Contributions
In lieu of flowers, the family welcomes memorial donations to be made to St. Mary Star of the Sea Church, which is located at 864 Pt. Judith Road, Narragansett, RI 02882. Such contributions will help continue the charitable works of the Church that Eileen so loved and supported throughout her life.
Conclusion
Eileen M. Degnan’s passing marks the end of an era filled with dedication to education and family. Her impact will be felt for generations to come, as she leaves behind a legacy of love, teaching, and community involvement. As her family and friends gather to honor her memory, they will undoubtedly celebrate a life well-lived.
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Additional Resources
- Providence Journal: Eileen M. Degnan Obituary
- Wikipedia: Narragansett, Rhode Island
- Nardolillo Funeral Home: Antonetta Merlino Obituary
- Google Search: Eileen M. Degnan
- Legacy: Alexa Helverson Obituary
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Education
- Nardolillo Funeral Home: Dolores Dupre Obituary
- Google News: Eileen M. Degnan
- Legacy: William Dipanni Obituary
- Google Scholar: Education History
Author: STAFF HERE PROVIDENCE WRITER
PROVIDENCE STAFF 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.
