Fern Acres Funeral Home Obituaries

Introducing Fern Acres Funeral Home: A Beacon of Comfort in Little Compton, RI

Fern Acres Funeral Home, located at 72 Willow Ave, Little Compton, RI, 02837, is a trusted and compassionate funeral home that has been serving the local community for years. With a commitment to providing exceptional care and support during difficult times, Fern Acres Funeral Home has established itself as a beacon of comfort and solace for families in need.

A History of Excellence and Dedication

Fern Acres Funeral Home has a rich history of providing top-notch funeral services to the people of Little Compton and surrounding areas. The funeral home's experienced staff is dedicated to ensuring that every family receives personalized attention and care, tailoring their services to meet the unique needs and preferences of each individual.

Funeral Obiturary Search

Explore our extensive database to find and remember the lives of loved ones through millions of heartfelt obituaries

Search

Recent Funeral Home Obituaries

Janet B. Bonner - Unknown - April 11, 2022

Departed: 04/11/2022 (Little Compton)

Obituary Preview: Janet B. Bonner, 90, of Little Compton, passed away at Hope Health Hulitar

Hospice Center in Providence on Monday April 11, 2022, after a short illness. Janet was predeceased by her beloved husband Roy in 2021 after nearly 67 years

of marriage.

Born in Brooklyn, NY, she was the daughter of Edward and Elizabeth (Blythe) Burl.

Janet was a graduate of Centenary Junior College in Hackettstown, NJ. Mrs. Bonner worked for the General Electric Company prior to starting her family

and has also held positions in cosmetic and insurance sales. Janet is survived by her sons, James and wife Michele of East Greenwich, Peter of Medford, OR, and daughter Peggy Mulvey and husband Jim of Warwick, and four

grandchildren, Alex, Brendan, Sam, and Lauren. She was predeceased by her grandson, Christopher Bonner and her sister, Elizabeth Mount of Chapel Hill, North Carolina.

Visiting hours will be Monday, April 18th, 2022 4:00-7:00 pm at Fern Acres Funeral Home, Little Compton. A mass of Christian burial will be held on Tuesday, April 19, 2022, 10:00 am at St. Catherine of Siena Church, 74 Simmons Road, Little Compton. Interment will immediately follow at Our Lady of Fatima Cemetery, South Commons Road, Little Compton.

View Full Obituary

Timothy Maloney - Unknown - March 20, 2022

Departed: 03/20/2022 (Little Compton)

Obituary Preview: Timothy Maloney, 84, of Little Compton, passed away peacefully at home on Sunday March 20, 2022. He was the husband of the late Patricia (Bolster) Maloney and father of Courtney Maloney.

Tim was born and raised in North Attleboro, Massachusetts. His parents were the late Roland V. Maloney and Gertrude (Cullen) Maloney. He played high school football for the North Attleboro Red Rocketeers, and years later rigged a radio antenna so that he could listen to their Thanksgiving Day games against rival Attleboro from his home in Little Compton. After graduating from Stonehill College, he served in the US Navy, returning to active duty in later years and eventually retiring with the rank of Commander. Tim met his wife Patricia in Livorno, Italy and they were married for 52 years.

After settling in Little Compton in 1968, Tim and his brother Terry ran a fish market in Middletown, RI called Newport Lobster Pound. After they closed the market in the late ‘70’s, Tim worked as a cook on a Raytheon research vessel and as a quahogger. His most cherished occupation came later in life, when he taught refrigeration and air conditioning at MCI Bridgewater. Tim was a spiritual person who believed in the fundamental benevolence of the universe. He was also an accomplished organic gardener, known especially for his garlic. He will be remembered for his sense of humor, cheerful demeanor, and kindness to all.

Survivors include his daughter Courtney and son-in-law Martin Allen; his brother Terrence Maloney and Terry’s wife Kathy, brother-in-law Vincent Hoye of North Attleboro, and beloved nieces and nephews including Ann (Leary) Stock and Margaret (Leary) Dooley, formerly of Little Compton; and many dear friends. Timothy was predeceased by his sisters Eileen (Maloney) Leary, Sheila (Maloney) Hoye, and Nora (Maloney) Roche.

His funeral will be held on Saturday, March 26th at 8:30 am from Fern Acres Funeral Home, 72 Willow Avenue, Little Compton, followed by a Mass of Christian Burial at 10:00 am at St. Catherine of Siena Church, 74 Simmons Road, Little Compton. Interment will follow in Our Lady of Fatima Cemetery, Little Compton. Visiting hours Friday 4:00-7:00 pm.

View Full Obituary

Therese Germani - Unknown - February 18, 2022

Departed: 02/18/2022 (Little Compton)

Obituary Preview: Germani, Therese (Emond) 98, of Little Compton, passed away peacefully in her sleep on February 18th 2022. Terry was born to the late Joseph and Therese (Gauthier) Emond. She attended St. Jean Baptiste High School in Pawtucket where she was Salutatorian and later received her B.A from Rhode Island College. She taught elementary school for 25 years. In between school jobs she lived in Abidjan, Ivory Coast where she worked part time with the U.S Information Service. She married Renato Germani in 1975. They lived in Little Compton and Marco Island, Florida.

She is survived by her children, Jonathan (Stephanie) Pare, Los Angeles, CA, Jay (Judy) Pare of Brooklyn, NY, Maurine (Skip) Sviokla, Providence, RI, Therese Pare of Sante Fe, NM; stepchildren, Paul (Jane) Germani, Eugene, OR, Thomas (Susan) Germani, Minnetonka, MN, Peter (Patricia) Germani, Pawtucket, RI and Mark (Ellen) Germani of Hinsdale, IL.

She will be missed by her nine grandchildren and fourteen great grandchildren. Calling hours are respectfully omitted.

Relatives and friends are invited to attend a mass of Christian Burial on Saturday, February 26, 2022 at 10:00 AM, St. Catherine of Siena Church, Simmons Road, Little Compton. Interment will immediately follow at Our Lady of Fatima Cemetery, Simmons Road, Little Compton. For expressions of sympathy please visit www.fernacresfuneralhome.com.

View Full Obituary

Dr. Erwin Hultsch - Unknown - December 29, 2021

Departed: 12/29/2021 (Little Compton)

Obituary Preview: Erwin Hultsch, MD (Ophthalmologist), 77, of Boston, MA and Little Compton, RI passed away December 29, 2021, at his home in Rhode Island. Born in Immenstadt, Germany, son of the late Paul and Erika (Kroening) Hultsch. Erwin attended medical school at University of Tuebingen, Germany (1964-1970), completed his Doctoral Thesis in biochemistry, University of Freiburg, Germany (1970), and was recipient of the Goedecke Research Award in Basic and Clinical Sciences, University of Freiburg Medical School, Germany (1970). Various research grants allowed Dr. Hultsch to immigrate to the USA to engage in research on the retina: the Investigator Award from the German National Science Foundation (1972-1975) and research grants by the National Eye Institute, NIH (1975-1982).

He received his license to practice medicine, W. Germany (1972) and USA (1982). Dr. Hultsch went on to serve his Residency in Ophthalmology, University of Wisconsin, Madison, USA (since 1982). Dr. Hultsch practiced ophthalmology for over 30 years in Taunton, MA. This was not only his profession but truly his passion. Dr. Hultsch cared for the wellbeing of each of his patients. He enjoyed the multigenerational experience he had practicing medicine. Helping people to have better vision was Erwin's "special gift to everyone he met".

Erwin was interested in classical literature, classical music and the origins of mankind. He spent many a night on the rooftop of his Little Compton home stargazing. He kept himself fit by swimming and walking along the beautiful Rhode Island beaches.

Dr. Hultsch is survived by his loving daughter and son-in-law, Susanne and Stefan Feldmann and much cherished grandchildren, Nia and Tori. Funeral will be private however for expressions of sympathy visit www.FernAcresFuneralHome.com

View Full Obituary

Sigrud Birkin Mahl Hommeyer - January 18, 1935 - December 14, 2021

Departed: 12/14/2021 (Little Compton)

Obituary Preview: Sigrud Birkin Mahl Hommeyer was born on Jan. 18, 1935, in San Francisco, Calif. She and her three siblings were first generation Americans, the children of a Swedish engineer and a German surgical nurse. The Mahl house was full of classical music, discussions of science and philosophy and the creation of art in many forms. Sigrud’s personal interest in music began in the Children’s Choir in San Francisco.

Sig, or Siggy, as she was known, went to Lowell High School in San Francisco, where she sang in the choir and the glee club, and was repeatedly voted “Best Dancer”. She moved on to San Francisco State College, where she received a degree in education.

After graduating from college, Sig began student teaching in San Francisco. Shortly thereafter, she landed her first teaching job in Sacramento, where she met her future husband, Paul Hommeyer. After their wedding, Paul and Sig headed to Minnesota, where they made their first home in Wayzata.

Sig was instrumental in establishing the Wayzata Montessori School, and was employed as a kindergarten teacher by the Wayzata School System until she retired to raise three children. One of Sigrud’s students, whom she kept in touch with throughout her life, became a recognized educator and lecturer. She dedicated her latest book to Sigrud, noting that Sig changed her life and started her on her journey.

During her 44 years in Minnesota, Sig sang in the Wayzata Community Church choir, was a docent for the Minneapolis Institute of Art and was on the board of the Minnesota Dance Theater.

Sigrud was very proud of her family history. Sigrud’s grandfather, Ferdinand Thomas, was a renowned 19th c. German landscape painter, and she was invited to attend the 150th anniversary celebration of his birth. Little did she know that she was also expected to speak at the event. When her time came, out of respect for her grandfather and in deference to the local audience, Sig spoke to the crowd in German for over 20 minutes and received a standing ovation.

In 2008, Sigrud and Paul moved to Little Compton, R.I., to be closer to their grandchildren and to the ocean. They built a home overlooking the Watson Reservoir, with beautiful views of the water and woods on the north side that reminded them of Minnesota. As the years passed in Rhode Island, Sigrud and Paul took constant pleasure in the nature that surrounded them, from morning bird watching, deer and small animal visits, evening sunsets over the water and hooting owls at night. This was where they wanted to live, to enjoy family and to rest.

Sigrud is survived by her husband, Paul, her three children, Thomas, Kristin and Peter, and her five grandchildren, Hanna, Max, Leo, Gustave and Henry. She was the bright light and strongest force in our family. Sig will always be remembered for her strength, perseverance and sense of humor. Her greatest passion and gift was working with and caring for children and animals; she always had a houseful of strays and orphans, animal and human alike.

Sigrud loved people and was always the life of the party, particularly if there was music so she could dance. Over the course of her 86 years, Sigrud maintained friendships with four generations, from her mother’s friends to those of her grandchildren. She was unique and irreplaceable and will be forever missed. For expressions of sympathy please visit www.fernacresfuneralhome.com

View Full Obituary

Russell A. Racette, Jr. - August 10, 1940 - November 26, 2021

Departed: 11/26/2021 (Little Compton)

Obituary Preview: Russell A. Racette Jr., 81, of Little Compton, RI, passed away on November 26, 2021 after a valiant battle with cancer.

Russell was born on August 10, 1940 to Russell Racette Sr. and Gertrude (Kane) Racette in Fall River, MA. He attended Durfee High School where he met the love of his life and married his wife of 58 years, Carolyn Wilkinson Racette.

Russell went on to study Engineering at the University of Massachusetts, Amherst. Upon graduation, he served in the United States Army as 1st Lieutenant (Fort Hood.) After the army he had a long, successful and respected career of 42 years working at the Naval Undersea Warfare Center in Newport, RI where he played a major role in preventing NUWC from being part of the Base Realignment Closure Act saving 1000s of jobs and helping the economy of Rhode Island.

Russell was a force of nature, determined to provide for his family and give them a wonderful life. Family always came first with Russell and he never failed to convey his unwavering support and love to his children Russell, Susan, and Kevin. He was proud of the community in which he lived and served on the Little Compton Town Planning Committee and the Undersea Science and Engineering Foundation teaching students about underwater robotics.

Russell was a dedicated runner and could be regularly seen out jogging and headed to the beach for a swim. He enjoyed many active hobbies like country dancing with his wife, and was a talented wood working craftsman.

Anyone who knew Russell knew that he was the most loving father and husband a family could ask for. Russell was predeceased by his father Russell Racette Sr. and mother, Gertrude (Kane) Racette. He is survived by his wife Carolyn (Wilkinson) Racette, children Russell Racette III (Newport), Susan Racette (Austin), and Kevin Racette (Saunderstown) and wife Geraldine (Larkin) Racette as well as three grandchildren.

Visiting hours Friday Dec. 3rd, 2021, 6:00 – 8:00 PM at Fern Acres Funeral Home, 72 Willow Ave., Little Compton, RI.  Funeral mass Saturday Dec. 4th at 10:00 AM at St. Catherine of Siena Church, 74 Simmons Road, Little Compton.  Burial with full military honors immediately following at Beech Grove Cemetery, 947 Main Rd., Westport, MA.  For expressions of sympathy please visit www.fernacresfuneralhome.com.

View Full Obituary

Tracey Ann Haskins - Unknown - June 29, 2021

Departed: 06/29/2021 (Little Compton)

Obituary Preview: Tracey Ann Flores Haskins, 55 of Tiverton, Rhode Island, passed away June 29, 2021, at Berkshire Place in Providence.   Raised in Little Compton, RI, she was the daughter of Sylvia T. Rock Flores Rancourt and the late Antone (Tim) Flores , Jr. and stepdaughter to the late Laurent H. Rancourt.

Tracey graduated from Middletown High School and attended Bristol Community College.  She was a wonderful CNA and was loved by all her patients.

Some of the favorite things she enjoyed in life were her pets, the beach and spending time with her family.  Tracey also enjoyed exploring spirituality and nature.  People who knew Tracey knew she could always brighten any party with nothing but a joke or a drink.  She was one of the funniest people you would ever want to be around.  Tracey will be dearly missed by all her family and friends and will be forever remembered as the smart, funny, kind and selfless woman she was.

Besides her mother, Tracey is survived by her son Matthew R. Haskins and daughter Sarah Jane Haskins, sister Christina Flores and brothers Tim and Todd Flores.  Funeral and burial services were private.  Arrangements by Fern Acres Funeral Home, Little Compton, RI.  To send condolences, please visit fernacresfuneralhome.com.

View Full Obituary

Roy F Bonner - Unknown - June 27, 2021

Departed: 06/27/2021 (Little Compton)

Obituary Preview: No description available

View Full Obituary

Maximus Julian - Unknown - June 01, 2021

Departed: 06/01/2021 (Little Compton)

Obituary Preview: Julian, Maximus H.

22, of Little Compton Rhode Island, tragically passed away from a random act of violence on June 1st, 2021, surrounded by his family. Maximus was born in Little Compton, Rhode Island to his parents Diago and Nicole Julian. Maximus was a graduate of Portsmouth High School, and was about to graduate from the University of Rhode Island in the fall with his bachelor's in Marketing. Max was an avid BMX rider, fisherman and outdoorsman. He was someone who found joy in the little things and made friends everywhere he went. He was highly motivated and never gave up on anything he did. Maximus is survived by his parents, Diago (Duke) and Nicole Julian, his older sister and her husband Abigail and Joshua Despres, his older brother and his fiancé Duke Julian and Mikayla Swenson, and his grandmothers, Marion Ponte and Debra Richard. Max was a bright light, whom so many people gravitated towards. He was a loving and caring person who will be eternally missed. Calling hours will be held on Tuesday, June 8th 2021, from 4-7 pm at Fern Acres Funeral Home, 72 Willow Avenue in Little Compton, Rhode Island. The funeral will be held on Wednesday, June 9th 2021, at Fern Acres Funeral Home at 11am. Burial will follow at Our Lady of Fatima Cemetery.

View Full Obituary

A Wide Range of Funeral Services

Fern Acres Funeral Home offers a comprehensive range of funeral services, including traditional funerals, cremations, memorial services, and burials. Their experienced team will guide you through the entire process, from planning to execution, ensuring that every detail is taken care of with precision and care. Whether you're planning ahead or dealing with a sudden loss, Fern Acres Funeral Home is equipped to handle all your funeral needs.

Personalized Funeral Planning

At Fern Acres Funeral Home, they understand that every life is unique, and every funeral should be a reflection of the person who has passed. That's why they offer personalized funeral planning services, allowing families to customize every aspect of the funeral to honor their loved one's memory. From selecting music and flowers to choosing a casket or urn, Fern Acres Funeral Home's experienced staff will work closely with you to create a meaningful and memorable celebration of life.

Cremation Services with Care

Fern Acres Funeral Home also provides cremation services with the same level of care and attention to detail as their traditional funeral services. They understand that cremation is a personal choice, and they're committed to ensuring that every family receives the highest level of service and respect. From direct cremation to memorial services with cremation, Fern Acres Funeral Home offers a range of options to suit your needs.

Supporting You Through Grief

Losing a loved one can be an overwhelming experience, but Fern Acres Funeral Home is committed to supporting you through the grieving process. They offer bereavement resources, including counseling services and support groups, to help you navigate the difficult days ahead. Their compassionate staff will provide emotional support and guidance as you say goodbye to your loved one.

A Beautiful Facility for Memorializing Your Loved One

The facilities at Fern Acres Funeral Home are designed to provide a peaceful and comforting atmosphere for families to gather and pay their respects. The funeral home's beautifully landscaped grounds and elegant chapels create a serene setting for memorial services, visitations, and funerals. Whether you're planning an intimate gathering or a larger celebration of life, Fern Acres Funeral Home's facilities are equipped to accommodate your needs.

Community Involvement and Outreach

Fern Acres Funeral Home is deeply rooted in the Little Compton community and is committed to giving back through various outreach programs and initiatives. They partner with local organizations to provide educational resources on grief support, funeral planning, and end-of-life care. By engaging with the community, Fern Acres Funeral Home demonstrates its dedication to serving families beyond the funeral home's walls.

Contacting Fern Acres Funeral Home

If you're seeking compassionate and professional funeral services in Little Compton, RI, look no further than Fern Acres Funeral Home. To learn more about their services or to schedule a consultation, please don't hesitate to contact them at (phone number) or visit their website at (website URL). Their experienced staff is always available to answer your questions and provide guidance during difficult times.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is an obituary?

An obituary is a written notice that announces the death of a person, typically including their name, age, date of birth and death, and a brief biography. It may also include information about their family, accomplishments, and any notable achievements.

Why are obituaries important?

Obituaries serve as a way to inform friends, family, and community members of a person's passing, allowing them to pay their respects and offer condolences. They also provide a lasting tribute to the deceased, preserving their memory and legacy.

Who typically writes an obituary?

In most cases, the obituary is written by a family member or close friend of the deceased. However, it can also be written by a funeral home or a professional obituary writer.

What information should be included in an obituary?

A typical obituary includes the person's full name, age, date of birth and death, place of residence, and information about their family, such as surviving spouse, children, grandchildren, and siblings. It may also include details about their occupation, hobbies, achievements, and any notable awards or recognition.

How long should an obituary be?

The length of an obituary can vary depending on the publication or online platform. Typically, it ranges from 100 to 500 words. However, some online obituary platforms may allow for longer or more detailed tributes.

Can I include photos in an obituary?

Yes, many publications and online platforms allow you to include one or more photos with the obituary. This can be a great way to personalize the tribute and make it more meaningful.

How do I submit an obituary to a newspaper or online platform?

The submission process varies depending on the publication or platform. You can usually find guidelines on their website or by contacting their customer service department directly.

How much does it cost to publish an obituary?

The cost of publishing an obituary varies widely depending on the publication or platform. Some newspapers may charge by the word or line, while others may offer package deals or discounts for online-only publications.

Can I write my own obituary?

Yes, some people choose to write their own obituary in advance, often as part of estate planning or as a way to ensure that their life story is told accurately. This can be a therapeutic exercise and provide peace of mind for those who are concerned about how they will be remembered.

What is the difference between an obituary and a death notice?

A death notice is a brief announcement of a person's passing, typically including only the most basic information such as name, age, and date of death. An obituary is a more detailed tribute that provides additional information about the person's life and legacy.

Can I include quotes or poems in an obituary?

Yes, many people choose to include quotes, poems, or other meaningful passages in an obituary to add depth and personality to the tribute.

How long after someone passes away should an obituary be published?

The timing of publishing an obituary varies depending on cultural and personal preferences. In general, it's common to publish an obituary within a few days to a week after the person's passing.

Can I edit an obituary after it has been published?

In some cases, it may be possible to make minor corrections or updates to an obituary after it has been published. However, this depends on the publication or platform's policies and procedures.

What if I want to keep the funeral private but still want to share information about my loved one?

In this case, you may choose to publish a private or limited-access obituary that is only shared with close friends and family. Alternatively, you could create a memorial page on a social media platform or online memorial site.

Can I include charitable donations or memorial gifts in an obituary?

Yes, many people choose to include information about charitable donations or memorial gifts in an obituary as a way to honor their loved one's memory and continue their legacy.

How do I handle errors or inaccuracies in an obituary?

If you notice an error or inaccuracy in an obituary, contact the publication or platform immediately to request corrections. They will typically work with you to resolve the issue as quickly as possible.

Can I republish an obituary at a later date?

In some cases, yes. If you want to republish an obituary on a special anniversary or milestone date (e.g., one-year anniversary of passing), you can contact the original publication or platform to inquire about their policies and procedures.

What is the purpose of an online obituary?

An online obituary serves as a permanent digital record of a person's life and legacy. It allows friends and family to pay their respects, share memories and condolences, and connect with one another from anywhere in the world.

Can I include links to social media profiles or memorial websites in an obituary?

Yes, many online platforms allow you to include links to social media profiles or memorial websites in an obituary. This can help direct visitors to additional resources and tributes.

How do I ensure that my loved one's online obituary remains accessible over time?

Choose a reputable online platform that guarantees perpetual access to your loved one's obituary. You can also consider creating a printed copy of the obituary for safekeeping.

What if I'm not comfortable writing an obituary myself? Can I get help?

Yes! Many funeral homes and professional writers offer assistance with writing obituaries. You can also ask a trusted friend or family member for help.

Can I use humor or anecdotes in an obituary?

Absolutely! Including humorous stories or anecdotes can help bring the person's personality to life and make the tribute more engaging and memorable.

How do I know what type of information is appropriate for an obituary?

A good rule of thumb is to focus on sharing positive aspects of the person's life and legacy. Avoid including sensitive or controversial information that might cause discomfort for others.

Can I update an online obituary over time?

In many cases, yes! Online platforms often allow you to update an obituary with new information, photos, or memories over time. This can help keep the tribute fresh and relevant for years to come.