Frances E. (Gomes) Turbitt, a woman known for her loving, faith-filled, and selfless nature, passed away peacefully on July 23, 2023, at RI Hospital, Providence, RI. Born on July 12, 1933, in Providence, RI, she was the daughter of the late John and Mary (Botelho) Gomes.
Frances was the beloved wife of the late James W. Turbitt, Sr. Her marriage with James was a testament to their enduring love and shared commitment to family values. She was a devoted mother to her children: John D. Turbitt of East Providence, Barbara and Helio Silva of East Providence, Christine and Ron Sanda of Riverside. Frances was predeceased by her children, the late James W. Turbitt, Jr, and Pamela Buono.
Frances was a cherished sister to Amelia Gomes of East Providence, and Helen Madoian of Warwick. She was predeceased by her sister, the late Mary Mello. Frances was a doting grandmother to nine grandchildren and a great-grandmother to six. She was also a dear aunt, survived by many nieces and nephews.
Professionally, Frances was a dedicated department worker at the former Ann & Hope Store in Seekonk, where she served for many years. Her colleagues remember her as a hardworking and dependable team member who brought a sense of calm and order to the workplace.
Frances resided in East Providence for most of her life, with a brief period spent in Fox Point. She was a devout parishioner of St. Francis Xavier Church, where she found solace and community. Frances had an array of interests that added to her vibrant personality. She was an avid reader and a jazz music enthusiast. She found serenity in watching the boats at Latham Park and was a passionate follower of baseball. Above all, Frances was deeply religious and found immense joy in spending time with her family, children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. Her home was often filled with laughter, love, and the aroma of her delicious cooking.
In remembering Frances, we celebrate a life beautifully lived. Her legacy of love, faith, and selflessness will forever remain etched in the hearts of those who knew her. She was a beacon of strength, kindness, and resilience, inspiring those around her. Her memory will continue to be a source of comfort and inspiration for her family and friends. Frances E. (Gomes) Turbitt will be profoundly missed, but her spirit lives on in the lives she touched.
Her funeral will be held Thursday, July 27,2023 at 8:30am from the REBELLO FUNERAL HOME, 901 Broadway, East Providence, followed by a Mass of Christian Burial at 10:00am in St. Francis Xavier Church, 81 North Carpenter Street, East Providence, RI.
Burial will follow in Gate of Heaven Cemetery, 550 Wampanoag Trail, East Providence.
Relatives and friends are invited to attend. Calling hours are Thursday MORNING from 8:30-9:30am.
In lieu of flowers, donations in her memory may be made to the Autism Project, 1519 Atwood Avenue, Johnston, RI, 02919 or to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, 501 St. Jude P{lace, Memphis, TN, 38105.
www.rebellofuneralhome.com.
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