Thelma Drowne

Thelma (Folco) Drowne, 77, of Johnston, passed away peacefully at home on Monday, September 16, 2024 surrounded by her loving family. She was the beloved wife of the late Francis L. Drowne. Born on Federal Hill in Providence, she was the daughter of the late Gaetano and Angelina (Pella) Folco.

Thelma worked at the St. Thomas Regional School as the Lunch and Kitchen Manager for over 20 years before retiring. She was known as “Mrs. Drowne” during her time at St. Thomas and never let a child go hungry on her watch, and always had a gentle smile for every child.

A loving and devoted mother, grandmother and great-grandmother, she is survived by her two sons, Frank and Joseph Drowne; two daughters, Donna Carpentieri and her husband Joseph Carpentieri, Sr. and Toni Drowne and her husband Aaron Cole; three grandchildren, Stephanie Carpentieri, Carissa Carpentieri and Hanna Drowne; her great granddaughter, Joella Carpentieri; and many nieces and nephews. She was the grandmother of the late Joseph Carpentieri, Jr.; twin sister of the late Thomas Folco Sr.; and sister of the late Domenic Folco Sr., Danny Folco, Michelina Notarianni and Irene Abbenante.

She was an adored “Nonni” to her grandchildren and great-grandchildren, known for her Sunday dinners, Christmas gingerbread and egg biscuits. She was a beloved mother to her four children and always asked if they were hungry. She was known to all her friends as a great listener and peacemaker. 

Her funeral will be held on Friday, September 20, 2024, at 9 a.m. from the MaceroniFuneral Home, 1381 Smith St., North Providence, followed by a Mass of Christian Burial at 10 a.m. in St. Thomas Church, 65 Fruit Hill Ave., Providence. Interment will be in St. Ann Cemetery, Cranston. Visitation will be held on Thursday, September 19, 2024 from 4 – 7 p.m. In lieu of flowers, donations in Thelma’s memory may be made to St. Thomas Church Food Pantry, 65 Fruit Hill Ave., Providence, RI 02909.