Karen Marie Assanti, 66, of North Providence, passed away peacefully on Monday, October 26, 2026, surrounded by her loving family, after a brief illness. Born in Providence, Karen was the beloved daughter of Angelo Assanti and the late Maria (Santopietro) Assanti.

Karen was known for her intense drive and determination and never gave up in the face of adversity. She loved any and all things Disney, especially Donald Duck and Mickey Mouse, but if she had a choice, all who knew her understood that Donald would win that battle. Not only did she love Disney, but she loved drawing her favorite Disney characters in her younger years, even hoping to possibly work for Disney.

She was a phenomenal artist as well with drawings and paintings, not only on paper and canvas, but also being showcased in all aspects of her life. Most notably, as her friends and family would attest to, her vast clothing and sneaker wardrobe, which might even put Macy’s (or any department store) to shame. She had an eye for style and had a pair of shoes to match anything she wore and was never seen in the same thing twice (quite possibly because she could not find it ever again).

Karen was also a lover of music, whether it would be Madonna in the 80s or Janet Jackson in the 90s, she would always keep up with the recent happenings in the music world.

However, besides her artwork, her CDs and love for all things clothing, she will be best remembered for her smile and her tight hugs, which if she ever gave you one, you would remember it.

In addition to her father, Karen leaves behind her loving sister, Debra Marocco, and her husband, George, of Johnston; and her cherished nephews, George and Michael Marocco, also of Johnston, and was also the Godmother to Michael as well. Besides her immediate family, she leaves behind her many aunts and uncles as well as her many cousins. She will be dearly missed by her family and all who knew and loved her.

Visitation will be held on Monday, November 2, 2026, from 9:30 to 11:00 a.m., followed by a prayer service at 11:00 a.m. at Maceroni Funeral Home, 1381 Smith Street, North Providence. Burial will follow at St. Ann Cemetery in Cranston. A Celebration of Life will be held at a later time.