Pauline Rita Fontaine, 80, passed away peacefully on July 16, 2026, in North Providence, Rhode Island. Born on July 12, 1946, in North Attleborough, Massachusetts, Pauline lived a vibrant and fulfilling life marked by her dedication to family, friends and community.
Pauline devoted much of her professional life to caring for others as a certified nursing assistant (CNA), retiring from Memorial Hospital in 2008. Her career also included roles at Griggs & Brown Pest Control, Gardener's Restaurant, Roger Williams Hospital, and Rhode Island Foot Care. Through her work, she touched countless lives with her compassion, commitment and joy for life.
Family was at the heart of Pauline’s life. She is survived by her daughter, Robin Mercier DaCosta (Manny); her stepdaughter, Bonnie Phillips; her stepson, Michael F. Bonin (Christine); and her cherished grandchildren: Samuel DaCosta (Sabrina), Sophia Maria DaCosta, Quint Bonin, and Brody Bonin. Pauline also leaves behind her sister, Jeannette LaPorte (Dewey); a sister-in-law, Thelma Fontaine; 14 nieces and nephews; and numerous great-nieces and nephews. She was predeceased by her parents, Omer and Maria (Giroux) Fontaine; two sisters, Constance Brochu (Marcel) and Yvette Logan (Howard); a brother, Omer Norman Fontaine; and the love of her life, Robert J. Bonin.
Pauline had an adventurous spirit that led her to embrace travel and new experiences. She was deeply involved in her community and found joy in helping those in need. Known for making friends wherever she went, she was a familiar face at Providence WaterFire events and delighted in live music and musicals. Her zest for life extended to following the adventures of her children and grandchildren with pride.
Those who knew Pauline will remember her as loving, funny, positive, creative, organized—and always full of energy. Her strong-willed yet warm personality brought light to every room she entered. Feisty and sassy with an infectious laugh, she left an indelible mark on all who had the privilege of knowing her.
May Pauline’s memory bring comfort to those who loved her and inspire others to live with the same passion and kindness that defined her remarkable life. A funeral service will be held on Aug. 1, 2026, at 10 a.m. at St Robert Bellarmine, 1804 Atwood Ave, Johnston.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Pauline's name to the Blackstone Valley Emergency Food Closet Inc., 75 Benefit St., Pawtucket, R.I., 02861; or St. Robert's Parish (with memo noting donation is earmarked for the food pantry), 1804 Atwood Ave., Johnston, R.I., 02919.