Jean Frances Kohanski

Born September 30, 1949, in Providence, RI, “Jeannie” was the loving daughter of the late Frank and Anna (Croce) Gallo.

She is predeceased by her parents Frank and Anna (Croce) Gallo, son Kenneth Kohanski Jr, and brother Frank Gallo Jr.

She is survived by her sister Carol (Gallo) Mikoski (Edward) of Virginia, her granddaughter Marissa Puleo of Smithfield RI, a great-granddaughter, nieces, nephew, great-nieces, great-nephews, and dearest and constant companion, caregiver, and loving friend Rick Tricaro.

Some might say that Jeannie left her heart in Rhode Island, when in the late 1980’s, her sense of wanderlust prompted her to travel to Florida where she eventually lived the remainder of her life in Boca Raton, Palm Coast, and West Palm Beach. Nevertheless, to her RI was always “home”, and she continued to remain in touch with her friends and family. Jeannie enjoyed traveling with friends who shared her zest for life and pursuit of adventure. Monterrey, Lake Tahoe, Las Vegas, Hawaii, and Aruba were some of her favorite places to visit. She also looked forward to attending local Suncoast fairs, boat shows, and concerts.

Health concerns eventually led to quieter times; they brought her closer to those whom she cherished and to the Florida beaches where extraordinary sunrises and sunsets provided profound peace. Her long blonde hair flowing in the ocean breeze, she would sit for hours strengthened by an optimism that mirrored little doubt – life was precious and near the shore was where to enjoy it and find peace.

Jeannie lived every day she was supposed to live. She lived it beautifully. She lived it courageously. She lived it helping others. She lived it in faith as one of the sweetest souls of creation. Some would say that Jeannie was a free spirit with unshakable beliefs – a girl who knew her own mind and lived accordingly. As we bid Jeannie farewell, let us not mourn her absence but rather embrace the essence of her tender angelic spirit that lingers in the spaces between moments - now joyful and free.

Beauty, joy, laughter, compassion, tenderness, thoughtfulness, generosity, goodness, and love. All these and more left our world with Jeannie’s passing.

Burial and memorial services will be private.

If you wish to remember Jeannie by donation, please consider contributing to St. Thomas Food Pantry, 65 Fruit Hill Avenue, Providence, RI 02909.