Annette I. Connors

Annette I. Connors, 86, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, August 11, 2026. She was the beloved wife of the late Joseph Connors. Born in Pawtucket, she was the daughter of the late George and Emilia (Lussier) Paquin. Annette lived most of her life in Pawtucket. Annette attended St. Jean the Baptist Academy in Pawtucket, where she was well known by her classmates for her intelligence and talent in the business program.

She is survived by her children, Kenneth Connors and his wife, Marisa, of Broomfield, Colorado, and David Connors and his wife, Suzanne, of Dighton, Massachusetts; her sisters, Diane Paquin, Lorene Lehoullier, and Lois Coutu. She also leaves seven grandchildren; Michaella Sampson and her husband, Greg, Alyssa Johnson, Mackenzie Connors, Megan Connors, Morgan Connors, and Ian Connors. She was blessed with two great-grandchildren, Emmlyia and Collette Sampson, who lovingly called her Mémère. She was also a beloved aunt to seven nieces and nephews and many great-nieces and great-nephews. Most of them affectionately called her “Auntie Nett,” a name she loved and wore proudly. Annette was the mother of the late Christine Alves, the grandmother of the late Shane Johnson, and the sister of the late Frances Coutu.

Family was the center of Annette’s life. She cherished every generation of her family and found great joy in watching her children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, nieces, and nephews grow and create lives of their own. She was happiest when everyone was together, whether it was for a holiday, birthday, family gathering, dinner, or one of the many special occasions she made sure never to miss. Annette never missed a birthday party, dance recital, school event, or special occasion for her grandchildren, great-grandchildren, nieces, or nephews. If someone she loved was participating, she was there. She wouldn't miss it for anything—especially if she was promised a nice dinner out afterward!

Annette shared an indescribable bond with her sisters. They were not only sisters but the very best of friends, and their closeness was something truly special. They shared countless memories, laughter, stories, and adventures throughout the years. Annette especially looked forward to her annual trips to Florida with her sisters, a tradition that gave her many happy memories. These trips were wonderful, but they were only part of her love of travel. In earlier years, she enjoyed traveling the world, including memorable trips to Aruba, the Bahamas, and other exotic destinations. She also treasured her many trips to Colorado to visit family. No matter how far away her loved ones were, Annette always made an effort to stay connected.

If there were an award for shopping, she would have won it every time. Finding the best deal was one of her favorite hobbies, and she took great pride in getting the most for her money. Her everyday routines were just as important to her. Reading the Pawtucket Times and watching the 11 o’clock news were longtime parts of her day. And no matter what else was happening, there was always room for one of her favorite treats—chocolate, or a coffee ice cream cone and a Diet Coke.

Her family will forever treasure the traditions, stories, laughter, travels, celebrations, and countless ordinary moments that made time with Annette so special. She was a devoted mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, sister, aunt, and friend, and her legacy will live on through the many people whose lives she touched.

Relatives and friends are kindly invited to a Mass of Christian Burial on Tuesday, August 18, 2026, at 10:00 a.m. at Saint Margaret Church, 1098 Pawtucket Avenue, East Providence. Burial will follow in Notre Dame Cemetery, Pawtucket. 

Visiting hours will be held on Monday, August 17th, from 5:00 – 7:00 p.m. at Manning-Heffern-O’Neill Funeral Home, 220 Cottage Street, Pawtucket.