Jane M. Balentine, 87, passed away peacefully under the care of HopeHealth Hospice in Wakefield, surrounded by her loved ones on September 18. She was the treasured aunt of Michele Martinelli Nachamie, Beth M. Martinelli, Lisa M. Martinelli, Megan J. Martinelli, Elizabeth A. D'Amore, and Dorothea E. Baribault-Sampson. She leaves behind her lifelong and dearest friend, Gale Rowles.

Jane was born in Providence, to the late Margaret L. (O'Malley) Balentine and Leo R. Balentine. She graduated from Rhode Island College in 1962 with a degree in Education.

A dedicated teacher, Jane taught English at Coventry High School for 34 years. She strove to impart integrity, compassion, and a love of learning within her many students. Jane enjoyed travelling, and traversed the globe with friends and family, visiting Eastern Europe, the United Kingdom, her beloved Ireland, many islands among the sparkling seas of the Caribbean, the west coast of the United States, and Hawaii.

Most importantly, Jane was devoted to her family and friends. She doted upon her sisters, her nieces and their respective children, her extensive network of first cousins, and countless friends. She always made herself available to help those in need, whether with a car ride, a phone call, or a simple card of appreciation or acknowledgement.

Jane was genuinely at home by the sea. Her love of the ocean was profound, and she was restored by the lull of the waves against the shore, the salt-tinged air, and the majesty of a sunrise or sunset above the immense power of the water.

Jane is survived by numerous cousins, grandnephews and grandnieces, and friends. She was predeceased by her sisters, Margaret H. Martinelli and Patricia A. Baribault.

Sincere gratitude is extended to all that provided support for Jane, especially HopeHealth Hospice and the many CNAs, including Tara and Erika, who always treated her with utmost care and dignity.

Her Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Monday, September 28, 2026, at 10 AM at St. Mary Star of the Sea, 864 Point Judith Road, Narragansett, RI. Burial will immediately follow the service at St. Ann's Cemetery, 72 Church Street, Cranston, RI.

Calling hours and flowers are respectfully omitted.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made in Jane's memory to:

HopeHealth Hospice and Palliative Care

Attn: Philanthropy

1085 North Main Street

Providence, RI 02904

https://www.hopehealthco.org/ways-to-give/donatenow/