Eileen A. McKenna

Eileen A. McKenna (Simmons) 90, passed away peacefully on Friday, December 26, 2014. Born in Providence, the daughter of the late Walter E., and Grace C. (Byron) Simmons, she was the beloved mother of the late Raymond J. McKenna, Sr. She was the sister of the late Walter F. Simmons and Major Joseph H. Simmons.

For many summers, Eileen was the Program Directress at Camp St. Helene, a Catholic Charities camp in Palenville, NY. She was a Supervisor of Medical Transcription at the VA Hospital, Providence before her retirement, and later volunteered as a tour guide at the RI State House, adding her vast knowledge of Rhode Island history to the narrative. Eileen was a member of the National Association of Retired Federal Employees Chapter #989, and the Rhode Island Genealogical Society.

Eileen thoroughly enjoyed yard sales and the possibility of hidden treasure. An insatiable reader, she could converse actively on almost any topic. Her greatest joy, however, was spending time with her family and friends. She possessed the rare talent of making each person feel special.

She leaves behind her loving daughter-in-law, Susan M. McKenna, and cherished grandsons, Raymond J. McKenna, Jr., and Petty Officer First Class Brendan P. McKenna USN. She is also survived by many devoted nieces and nephews, as well as great nieces and nephews.

Visiting hours will be held Friday morning, January 2, 2015 from 9 am-10:15 am at the MACERONI Funeral Home, 1381 Smith St., North Providence followed by a Mass of Christian Burial at 11am at Holy Cross Church, 645 Hartford Ave., Providence. Burial will follow in St. Francis Cemetery, Pawtucket. In lieu of flowers, donations in her memory may be made to: Rhode Island Irish Famine Memorial Committee, PO Box 28077, Providence, RI 02908.