Nuala Pell Passes Away
Nuala Pell, widow of the late Senator Caiborne Pell and grandmother to gubernatorial candidate, Clay Pell passed away on the morning of April 13, 2014 at Newport Hospital. She was 89 years old.
Funeral arrangements are under way and the service will be held next week on April 21 in Newport at Trinity Episcopal Church at 11am.
Many people throughout the state have expressed their condolences over her passing and have sent tributes to her.
Clay Pell, grandson & gubernatorial candidate:
“Our entire family is heartbroken by my grandmother’s passing. She dedicated her life to her family and to the service of others. From her work in support of the arts, education, and her humanitarian service, she was a beacon of hope to many. We could not have asked for a better parent or grandparent than Mimi. We will love and miss her more than words can express.”
Gov. Lincoln Chafee:
“I was saddened to learn of the passing of Nuala Pell, the devoted wife of Senator Claiborne Pell, a loving mother and grandmother, as well as a well-respected advocate for education, women’s health issues and the arts.
Nuala Pell was ever present on the political campaign trail and her opinion was valued by many. Her passion for scholarship and the humanities led to a decades-long advocacy of public service and philanthropy.
My sincere condolences to the Pell Family as we celebrate the many accomplishments of this remarkably talented and caring woman who has left her mark throughout our state.”
U.S. Sen. Jack Reed:
“I join with all Rhode Islanders in mourning the loss of an extraordinary woman, Nuala Pell. She had a timeless elegance and charm and was just a beautiful person.
“It was truly an honor to know both Nuala and Claiborne Pell. I will be forever grateful for their enduring friendship, leadership, and devotion to our great state. Together, they touched so many lives and helped so many individuals.
“Nuala Pell worked hard to give others opportunity and she did it with incredible grace, decency, and compassion. A civic leader in her own right, Nuala was a spirited champion of the arts, education, and public service. Her lifetime commitment to service and generous contributions to our community will continue to impact countless lives.
“I extend my deepest condolences to the family and friends of Nuala Pell. Her legacy of kindness, generosity, and working to expand opportunity for others will continue to live on.”
U.S. Sen. Sheldon Whitehouse:
“Nuala Pell’s remarkable lifetime of public service left an indelible mark on our state. Alongside her husband, Senator Claiborne Pell, she was a passionate advocate for the arts and humanities and, above all, for the people of our Ocean State. I will always remember her as a cherished friend, and I will miss her deeply. My thoughts and prayers are with the Pell family.”
Congressman Jim Langevin
«Senator Claiborne Pell was one of the greatest public servants in Rhode Island history, and his wife Nuala has always embodied those same values of selflessness, courage and kindness. I was proud to count the Pells as mentors and friends, and it is with a heavy heart and deep sadness that we say goodbye to Nuala. Her steadfast commitment and service to Rhode Island will never be forgotten. My thoughts and prayers are with the entire Pell family at this difficult time.»
Congressman David Cicilline
«I was deeply saddened to learn that Nuala Pell passed away earlier today. She was a great friend and an extraordinary woman who was deeply committed to serving the common good. Together with her husband, Senator Claiborne Pell, Nuala served Rhode Island and our nation in so many ways. Her generosity, philanthropy, and commitment to civic duty are a great loss to our state. I extend my condolences to the entire Pell family.»