News Summary
Jean Jeffrey Sabella, a cherished community figure and matriarch, passed away at the age of 98. Her dedication to family and community service will be remembered fondly. Jean was a loving wife, mother, and grandmother who contributed greatly to the lives of others throughout her life. She is survived by her family and a legacy of kindness that will live on in the hearts of many.
Providence, Rhode Island – Jean Jeffrey Sabella, a respected matriarch and beloved community figure, passed away on Friday, October 17, 2025, at the age of 98. Her contributions to the community and her loving family will be cherished by many.
Mrs. Sabella was the devoted wife of the late S. Albert Sabella for an impressive 68 years. She was born on March 21, 1927, in Pawtucket, Rhode Island, to Robert and Lena (Lawton) Jeffrey. Jean graduated from Pawtucket West High School in 1944 and later earned a Bachelor’s Degree in Gerontology from The University of Rhode Island in 1983.
Throughout her career, Jean held several positions that showcased her dedication to serving others. She began her professional journey as a secretary at Narragansett Wire Company in Pawtucket and also served as a house mother at the Rhode Island Hospital Nursing School. After completing her degree, she was employed at Fruit Hill Day Services, where she worked with the elderly, further demonstrating her commitment to community service.
Jean was an active member of the Blackstone Valley Historical Society and enjoyed participating in luncheons with her friends, affectionately known as her “Classymates.” One of her favorite pastimes was gardening, where she spent many hours tending to her yard, reflecting her love for nature. Additionally, she was known for her affection for all animals, which was another aspect of her nurturing personality.
Jean was preceded in death by her husband, her parents, her baby Sarah Jean Sabella, her sister Ruth Petorella, and her brother Robert Jeffrey. She is survived by her daughter, Susan Sabella Kemp, and her husband, Lawrence, as well as her son, Albert J. Sabella, and his wife, Carole Wahl. Jean also leaves behind two grandchildren and two great-grandchildren, who will carry on her legacy of love and kindness.
Relatives and friends are invited to pay their respects at her funeral service, scheduled for Thursday, October 23, 2025, at 11:00 AM. The service will be held at The Historic Chapel at Swan Point Cemetery on Blackstone Boulevard in Providence, followed by a burial ceremony. There will also be visitation hours on Wednesday, October 22, from 4:00 PM to 7:00 PM at Bellows Funeral Chapel, located at 160 River Road, Lincoln. For more information about the service and to leave messages of condolence, the family has set up a funeral website.
Jean Jeffrey Sabella’s passing marks the end of an era for her family, friends, and the community she served with grace and dignity. She will be remembered for her unwavering spirit, dedication to her family, and her impact on the lives of those around her.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Additional Resources
- Legacy: Jean Sabella Obituary
- Wikipedia: Obituary
- Legacy: Jean Sabella Memorial
- Google Search: Jean Sabella Obituary
- Legacy: Jean Sabella Tribute
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Obituary
- Legacy: Jean Sabella Life Story
- Google News: Jean Sabella
- Legacy: Jean Sabella’s Community Impact
- Google Scholar: Gerontology
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.
