Joanne Card Labelle

Joanne Card LaBelle, age 81, peacefully passed away on November 15, 2024. Joanne was the beloved high school sweetheart and devoted wife of Richard "Ben" LaBelle, sharing 60 wonderful years together.

Joanne graduated from South Kingstown High School in 1961. She then pursued her passion for nursing, graduating from Roger Williams General Hospital School of Nursing in 1964. Her dedication to women's health was evident throughout her career, as she worked with Drs. O’Neill OB/GYN from 1975 to 2005, and later at the Center for Women’s Health at South County Hospital until her retirement in 2010.

Joanne started the first Pregnancy Loss Support Group at South County Hospital, providing a safe and supportive space for grieving families. Her love for animals also led her to establish the first Therapy Dog Program at South County Hospital with her beloved dog, Molly. Through this program, Joanne and her golden retrievers brought comfort and joy to countless patients, creating a lasting impact on the community. Joanne’s volunteer work extended to comforting students at the University of Rhode Island where she regularly visited with her therapy dog Holly, providing a much-needed source of stress relief and emotional support during final exams.

Joanne cherished her family above all else. She is survived by her loving husband Ben and two daughters, Leanne Turenne (James) and Bethany Pratt (Gregory), as well as her three adored grandsons, Will, Ben, and Andrew. Joanne's grandsons were the light of her life, and she imparted to them invaluable lessons about love, laughter, and the importance of family. Known affectionately as "Nana," she shared countless joyful moments and left a lasting legacy of love.

Her vibrant personality and sense of humor were known to all who met her. Joanne's spontaneous tap dance performances brought smiles and laughter, brightening the days of everyone around her. Her faith was a cornerstone of her life, and she was an active member of Curtis Corner Baptist Church. Joanne’s unshakeable belief in Jesus Christ, her Savior, was a source of comfort and joy throughout her life.

Joanne is predeceased by her parents, Barbara Smith Card Kogut and Norman Welcome Card, as well as two brothers, David Card and John Card. She leaves behind loving relatives, including her brother Norman “Buzzy” Card (Bonnie), and countless friends who will always carry a piece of her in their heart.

In remembrance of Joanne, the family asks that you consider a donation to Animal Rescue Rhode Island, the Alzheimer’s Association, Harmony Hospice RI, a pet therapy volunteer group such as Paws for the Heart, or a charity of your choice, reflecting her lifelong commitment to helping others.

Joanne’s life was a testament to love, compassion, and service. She will be remembered fondly by all who were blessed to know her.

Visiting hours will be held on Friday, November 22nd from 4-7 pm in Avery-Storti Funeral Home, 88 Columbia St., Wakefield, RI, 02879. A funeral service will be held on Saturday, November 23rd at 10 am at Curtis Corner Baptist Church, 591 Curtis Corner Rd., South Kingstown, 02879. Burial will follow in New Fernwood Cemetery, W. Kingston, 02892.