Elaine Marie Verity, 90, died peacefully on January 18, 2026, in Johnston, Rhode Island. She was born on October 1, 1935, in East Providence, Rhode Island, the daughter of Joseph Mazzeo and Concetta Mancino Mazzeo.
Elaine was one of six children. She was predeceased by her siblings Anthony Mazzeo of Hollywood, Florida; Irene Simas of Lincoln, Rhode Island; Frank Mazzeo of Brewster, Massachusetts; and Robert Mazzeo of Barrington, Rhode Island. She is survived by her beloved sister, Anna Barboza of Seekonk, Massachusetts.
Elaine leaves behind four children whom she deeply loved: Rebecca Verity and her husband Philip Ragan of Carolina, Rhode Island, and their son Nigel Ragan; James Verity and his husband Ryan Loiselle of Providence, Rhode Island; Heidi Rivard of Smithfield, Rhode Island, and her son Kyle Rivard; and Stephanie Verity of North Providence, Rhode Island, and her son Nicholas Lizotte.
Elaine worked for many years as a talented seamstress, including alongside her sister Irene in her business. At the age of 47, Elaine embarked on a new and remarkable chapter of her life, becoming the first of her siblings to attend college. She graduated summa cum laude and earned her Master’s degree in Social Work from Rhode Island College.
Elaine went on to open and direct mental health group homes in Johnston, Rhode Island, and later established her own private practice, where she served individuals and families in need for over 20 years. Much of her work included referrals through employee assistance programs, and she was widely respected for her dedication, compassion, and commitment to helping others.
Elaine’s love for life, entertainment, and travel made her shine even brighter—a light she carried with her right up until the day she left this world. Her favorite word was “integrity,” a value she lived by each day and sought out in others, always encouraging those around her to be their best selves. She will be remembered for her resilience, wisdom, generosity of spirit, and the lasting impact she made both personally and professionally.
Friends and family are invited to gather at Anderson-Winfield Funeral Home in Greenville, RI for a visitation from 2-3:30pm with a Funeral Service at 3:30pm on Saturday, February 21st. The family invites everyone to join them for A Celebration of Life at 5 PM at the Roger Williams Park Botanical Center.