Mary Alice McManus

65, of South Kingstown, R.I., passed away peacefully on August 2, 2023.

Mary Alice—also known as Ali, Alice, Mellie, and MA to those who loved her—was born to Vincent and Marie (Colarusso) McManus on December 1, 1957, in Providence, R.I. The youngest of five girls, Mary Alice spent her adolescence in Waldwick, N.J., graduating from Paramus Catholic High School in Paramus before enrolling at Providence College in Providence, R.I. In 1977, Mary Alice was severely injured in a dormitory fire on campus. Her subsequent recovery was largely due to her unwavering determination, resiliency, and positive outlook—qualities that served as a common thread throughout her life. She graduated in 1980 with a Bachelor of Science degree in health care administration; a lifelong dedication to Providence College; and an unbreakable bond with the friends she made there.

Mary Alice went on to receive her master’s degree in public administration from Long Island University, CW Post Center, in Greenvale, N.Y. Upon moving to Brookline, Mass., she spent her career in health management, working for Automated Medical Systems and later at IDX Systems Corp in Boston.

In her retirement, Mary Alice enjoyed spending time at the Green Hill Beach Club in South Kingstown; experimenting with new recipes; hosting girls’ weekends; cruising in her convertible, and in recent years, “snowbirding” in Naples, Fla. She was active in Providence College alumni affairs and followed New England Patriots games and political debates with equal interest.

Mary Alice will be remembered for her charitable and generous nature, her incredible strength, and her ability to make friends wherever she went. She was quick to lend an ear, a shoulder to cry on, a slice of Caserta pizza, or a glass of sauvignon blanc. Mary Alice will also be remembered for bravely taking half a dozen nieces and nephews to Disney World…twice; her elaborate beach setup with more amenities than most people’s homes; her self-appointed position of neighborhood watch; and most of all, her sense of humor.

Mary Alice was predeceased by her beloved parents, Marie and Vinnie, and sister Catherine “Cathy” Reis. She is survived by nieces Michelle Gauvain Hara, Kelly Reis (Joshua) Carroll, Christine Gauvain Lake, Cathleen “Casey” Reis, as well as her great-nieces and nephews Alexa and Sophia Carroll; Matthew and Katie Hara; and Russell and Thomas Lake. She is also survived by three sisters (Marilyn Gauvain, Eileen [Richard] Nylen, and Deborah McManus) and three nephews (Christopher Nylen, Kevin Nylen, and Mark Nylen).

At Mary Alice’s request, there will be no visiting hours. Please join us for a Mass of Christian Burial honoring Mary Alice on September 23 at 11:00 a.m. at St. James Chapel in Charlestown, R.I. A private interment with family will be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made to South County Hospital Community Cancer Center, 142 Kenyon Ave, Wakefield, R.I. 02879, where Mary Alice received exceptional care the past several years.

Mary Alice’s family would like to thank her extensive network of friends and neighbors who assisted and supported her during her illness, as well as the staff at South County Hospital for their expertise, compassionate care, and for making her visits feel more like happy hour than medical appointments.