HOPE H. (HODGE) STILLWELL

Hope H. (Hodge) Stillwell 65, of West Warwick formerly of Narragansett, passed away peacefully at her home on October 2, 2008, surrounded by family. Born in New Jersey, she established her home in Narragansett, RI in 1965. She was employed at Ram Point Marina and raised her children prior to returning to school at URI College of Human Sciences and Services. In 1988 she graduated with honors and received the Outstanding Student Award. Her career focused on helping the elderly and their families. She worked in a variety of settings, including adult day care, nursing homes and rehabilitation facilities. Prior to her retirement, she worked as a discharge planner at Kent County Hospital. Hope was an active volunteer over the years. Early on she volunteered at South County Hospital and Simpatico. She acted as a "house mother" to many students from URI who rented rooms in her home. She served on the board of the Galilee Mission for Fisherman and was very active in the Alzheimer's Association. Most recently she served as an ombudsman for the Alliance for Better Long-Term Care, where she was an effective and respected advocate for nursing home patients. Hope was an avid gardener and had a real flare for decorating her always beautiful home on a budget. She loved the beach and collecting shells. She was a "counselor" and trusted, beloved friend to many, young and old. She leaves behind her daughter, Hollie Stillwell and son-in-law Enda Currid, daughter Kira Stillwell and granddaughter Bryn "Honeybunch" Stillwell, and her cousin Carl Healey. The family would especially like to thank Hope's long time caregiver Rachel Welch. Calling hours will be from 5-8 p.m. on Monday evening at the Nardolillo Funeral Home, SOUTH COUNTY CHAPEL, 1111 Boston Neck Road, Narragansett. A graveside service will be held at Quidnessett Cemetery in North Kingstown on Tuesday at 11:30 a.m. She will be near a very special friend. In lieu of flowers, donations may be sent to the SEVA Foundation at seva.org ( gifts of service section). Contact with the family may be made at PO Box 621, Narragansett, RI 02882.

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