Mildred Barbara Keenan

Mildred "Milly" Keenan of Newport, RI passed away peacefully Thursday, November 9, 2017 in Newport, surrounded by her children, grandchildren, and loved ones.Milly was born in Marion, Massachusetts on September 28, 1924 and was a uniquely strong and intelligent woman who defined selflessness, originality and independent spirit. After losing both parents, Mr. and Mrs. Joseph Lacerda, as a child, she was raised by Mr. and Mrs. Henry Escubar of Newport and graduated from Rogers High School at age 15. She began her professional career at the Naval Underwater Ordinance Station, where she met and married, Edward R. Keenan. After raising a family, she held positions at the RI Department of Labor and Training and the Naval War College. She was also an active volunteer with Friends of the Waterfront, an organization dedicated to defending public right of access to Newport harbor. Milly was passionately dedicated to her hometown and family. Her strong Catholic faith and devotion to Mary was an inspiration and guiding force in her life.Milly is survived by her children and extended family: David Keenan and his wife Karen of Sykesville, Maryland, Susan Keenan of New York, New York, Paul Keenan and his wife Barbara of North Smithfield, Rhode Island, Michael Keenan of Cincinnati, Ohio, and Christine Phillips and her husband Gary of Slingerlands, New York. She also leaves her 10 grandchildren: Patrick Keenan, Daniel Keenan, Joseph Keenan, Peter Keenan, Mark Keenan, Kevin Keenan, Michelle (Keenan) Schill, Sarah Keenan, Kate Keenan and Julie Keenan. She also leaves behind her dear friend Judy Carvalho who was like a daughter to Milly. Calling hours will be held Monday, November 13, 2017 from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. at Memorial Funeral Home, 375 Broadway, Newport. A Mass of Christian burial will be held at 10:00 am Tuesday, November 14, 2017 at St. Mary's Church, 12 William Street, Newport. Cemetery Details St. Columba Catholic Cemetery 465 Browns Lane Middletown, RI, 02842 Visitation NOV 13. 05:00 PM - 08:00 PM Memorial Funeral Home 375 Broadway Newport, RI, US, 02840 info@memorialfuneralhome.com http://www.memorialfuneralhome.com