Joan R. Audette

Joan R. Audette, 93, of Cumberland, passed away peacefully surrounded by her loving family on Friday, April 10, 2026. She was the beloved wife of the late Robert Audette, with whom she shared 69 wonderful years of marriage. Born in Pawtucket, she was the daughter of the late William and Margaret (Masterson) LaRose. A 1951 graduate of St. Xavier Academy, Joan enjoyed a 33-year career with the Rhode Island Department of Employment Security and Human Services. After retiring, she volunteered at Mt. St. Rita’s Health Center for 18 years. 

A devoted parishioner of St. John Vianney Church, she was an active member of its charismatic prayer group for more than 30 years. Joan cherished time with family and friends. She loved traveling, camping, trailering and flying to new places. Above all, she loved people and was known for her gift of conversation and her warm, welcoming spirit. She often spoke of looking forward to the day she would receive her welcome hug from Jesus, her best friend and Savior. 

She is survived by her children, Kevin Audette and his wife Trish, Dori Baril and her husband Joseph, Lisa Audette Boyce and her husband David, and Robin Audette; ten grandchildren, ten great-grandchildren, and one great-great-grandchild. She was the mother of the late Gary Audette.

Relatives and friends are kindly invited to visiting hours on Friday, April 17th from 9:00 - 10:15 AM at the O’Neill Funeral Home, 3102 Mendon Road, Cumberland. A Mass of Christian Burial will follow at 11:00 AM in St. John Vianney Church, 3609 Diamond Hill Road, Cumberland. Burial will take place in Resurrection Cemetery, Cumberland.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to St. John Vianney Church in memory of Joan Audette.