Claire L. (Sauvageau) Powell

Claire L. (Sauvageau) Powell, 96, formerly of Slatersville, RI, passed away January 5th, 2024 in Newfield House, Plymouth, MA. She was the wife of the late John A. Powell, Jr. Born in Providence on July 6, 1927, she was the middle of three daughters of the late Edward and Florence (Seaver) Sauvageau. The "Sauvageau Girls", Mary Lucille, Claire and Geri were independently-minded, lifelong friends, who grew up together in Woonsocket, RI.

Claire was a woman ahead of her time, having worked a long career at both The American Telephone and Telegraph Company (AT&T/"Ma Bell"), as a manual switchboard operator and as a Claims' Examiner for the State of Rhode Island.

Claire and Jack moved to Slatersville in 1958 and became part of the fabric of the village. An active person, Claire relished long walks in town in her signature Ked sneakers, always stylish and armed with a contagious smile and laugh to greet neighbors. She had a great attention to detail, evident in her attire, demeanor and treasured home. She was a communicant of St. John the Evangelist Church in Slatersville for over sixty years.

Adventures to Nantucket, Cape Cod, Narragansett and Newport punctuated Claire's years. She reveled in holiday family gatherings where she was known for her confection perfections. Strong and bold, kind, thoughtful and generous, she exuded a very quick wit.

She is survived by her two daughters, Kimberly K. Williams and her husband, Bruce, of Pembroke, MA, and Carleen M. Powell of Newport; several dear nieces and nephews; and her granddog, Gus. She was the sister of the late Geraldine M. Garrahan and Mary L. Fagan.

We extend our deep appreciation to the staff of Newfield House, whose kindnesses and professional care provided great comfort when most needed.

Her funeral will be held Saturday, January 20th. at St. John the Evangelist Church, 63 Church Street, Slatersville, RI 02876. A Mass of Christian Burial will begin at 11:00 am, but all are welcome to stop in earlier for visitation at 10:00 am, if preferred. Funeral arrangements are under the direction of the Holt Funeral Home, 510 South Main St., Woonsocket. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to The St. John the Evangelist Church Outreach Program to help support the needs of our neighbors.
 

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