Vivian G. Fay

Vivian G. Fay, 90, of Wakefield (formerly Cumberland), passed away peacefully on September 6, 2024, at the Westerly Rehabilitation & Healthcare Center. She was the beloved wife of the late John "Jack" Fay, with whom she shared 55 years of marriage.

Born in Providence to the late Carmine and Gilda (Delmonico) Grella, Vivian dedicated her life to education and service. For over four decades, she was a respected elementary teacher in the Cumberland School Department, shaping young minds and inspiring future generations.

In her retirement, Vivian continued to serve her community as the CCD Director at St. Kateri Church, where she and Jack are honored with a plaque on the CCD Building. She also held the position of President of The Daughters of Isabella, further demonstrating her commitment to faith and community.

Vivian was predeceased by her brothers Vincent and Chickie Grella, and her sister Fran Kaplan. She leaves behind a legacy of love through her five children and their spouses; Dr. John M. Fay II and Dr. Randi Fay of DePere, Wisconsin, Mark A. Fay, Esq. and Ann Fay of East Greenwich, Mary Fay Keenan and Dr. John Keenan of Newport, Robert M. and Tracy Fay of Cumberland, Kelli Fay-Wolfe and Dr. Victor Fay-Wolfe of West Kingston. Vivian's memory will be cherished by her fifteen grandchildren: Kristin, Kevin, Kyle, Sydney, Allie, Ryan, Cayla, Lauren, Eamon, Taylor, Garrett, Logan, Sean, Eric, and Casey; as well as her six great-grandchildren: Hannah, Colin, Brynn, Jackson, Jordan, and Jane.

Calling hours will be held on September 11, 2024 from 9 AM to 11 AM at the Avery-Storti Funeral Home, 88 Columbia Street, Wakefield, followed by a Mass of Christian Burial at 12 Noon in St. Kateri Catholic Church, 84 Exeter Road, Exeter. Burial will follow at St. Ann Cemetery, 73 Church St., Cranston.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations be made to Animal Rescue Rhode Island, PO Box 458, Wakefield, RI 02880, in honor of Vivian's love for animals.

Vivian will be remembered as a devoted educator, loving mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother, and a pillar of her community. Her warmth, dedication, and compassion touched countless lives, and she will be deeply missed by all who knew her.