Muriel G. (Phaneuf) Thomas

Muriel Gloria (Phaneuf) Thomas, 91, of Coventry, RI, passed away peacefully at her home surrounded by her loving family, on Saturday evening, December 28, 2024. She was predeceased by her husband of 71 years, Joseph ‘George’ Thomas, by just two weeks.

Born on October 10, 1933, in West Warwick, Rhode Island, Muriel was the daughter of the late John and Eva (Gervais) Phaneuf.

Together with her husband, Muriel built a home in Coventry, where they raised their family. Family was the heart of Muriel’s life, and her love for them was unwavering, a constant source of joy and strength that will be deeply missed.

Muriel had a fulfilling lifelong career as a hairstylist, owning her own salon before transitioning to welcoming clients into her home after retirement.

Beyond her family and career, Muriel was a prolific reader, enjoyed traveling with her husband, playing golf and lounging by her pool. Muriel was an avid golfer who for many years participated in a women’s league at Coventry Pines Golf Course. She was also part of a close-knit group of friends with whom she played cards weekly for several decades. Muriel was renowned for her cooking and hospitality, she will be remembered for her many parties, especially the unforgettable New Year’s Eve parties she hosted each year for her grandchildren. Her warmth and generosity will be deeply missed.

Muriel is survived by her children: Kenneth (Susan) Thomas of South Kingstown, Kevin Thomas of Coventry, and Karen (Arthur) Henault of West Warwick; her beloved grandchildren who lovingly referred to her as ‘Mim’: Darelle (Kevin) Walsh, Eliza (Patrick Brassil) Thomas, Ryan Thomas, Stephen (Rachael) Thomas, Katelyn (Sam) Lachapelle, Emily Thomas, and Matthew Henault.; her great-grandchildren Madalyn and Landon Walsh; and her sister Eileen Morgan of Tennessee. She was predeceased in death by her brother, Norman Phaneuf, and her sister Claire Phaneuf.

Services will be private at Rhode Island Veterans Memorial Cemetery where George and Muriel will be interred together. Visiting hours are respectfully omitted. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Muriel’s memory to Hope Health Hospice & Palliative Care, 1085 North Main Street, Providence, RI 02904 in her memory would be appreciated.  Information and condolences, please visit: www.PrataGallogly.com

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