By WPRO News and the Associated Press
PROVIDENCE, R.I. (AP) – Former Rhode Island first lady Suzanne Carcieri (kah-CHEER’-ee) has died.
Amy Kempe, a former aide to Republican Gov. Don Carcieri, says she died in the early morning hours Thursday. A spokesman for Democratic Gov. Gina Raimondo confirmed her death. They did not immediately have other details.
Sue Carcieri and her husband were high school sweethearts growing up in East Greenwich.
Carcieri, 76, took a visible role during her husband’s two terms in office from 2003 to 2011 and was one of his closest advisers, often sitting in on his news conferences.
David Tikoian, who ran Carcieri’s security detail, told WPRI-TV that she carried herself with grace and dignity, calling her generous and always concerned about others.
Raimondo ordered Rhode Island flags lowered to half-staff in her honor.
“Thank you for the outpouring of thoughts and prayers for Sue and for all of us, and a special thanks to Governor Raimondo and First Gentleman Moffit,” said Governor Carcieri in a statement he made with family. Sue was my life partner and best friend, my most trusted advisor, and the heart and soul of our family.”
A statement from former Governor Carcieri and family on the passing of Sue Carcieri: “Sue was my life partner and best friend, my most trusted advisor, and the heart and soul of our family.” – TR
#WPRO pic.twitter.com/ftdFQfinDW— NewsTalk 99.7 & AM 630 WPRO (@wpro) November 15, 2018
Kempe said times will be announced on Wednesday, but that a Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated Tuesday, November 20th at Our Lady of Mercy Church, 65 Third St., East Greenwich. Burial will be in St. Patrick Cemetery, East Greenwich. Calling hours will be held on Monday, November 19th at the Hill Funeral Home, 822 Main St., East Greenwich.
In lieu of flowers, donations in her name may be made to Mustard Seed Communities USA or Lifespan Cancer Institute.
Sue Carcieri was a smart, passionate and caring First Lady who served Rhode Island with grace and dignity. She was deeply dedicated to causes that moved her, fighting for breast cancer awareness and heating assistance for RIers in need. https://t.co/1Ht2XG2zZM
— Gina Raimondo (@GovRaimondo) November 15, 2018
Deeply saddened by the passing of former RI First Lady Sue Carcieri. We extend our heartfelt sympathies to Governor Carcieri and their children and grandchildren, who were the light of her life.
— Senator Jack Reed (@SenJackReed) November 15, 2018
Her tremendous success in public life doesn’t hold a candle to the example she set as a loving mother, wife, & teacher to many. Her love extended from her own family to a family in need, without skipping a beat. To Mrs C, Sue, Madam First Lady, RI raises a glass in thanks to you. pic.twitter.com/DBHTpgLYIz
— Mayor Allan Fung (@AllanFungRI) November 15, 2018
