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| Mrs. Nuala Pell (r.) with her grandson Clay Pell and Clay's wife Michelle Kwan at Clay's candidacy announcement last January |
Mrs. Pell died unexpectedly Sunday morning and is being grieved by family and friends, as well as the many Rhode Islanders who were touched by her good works and life of civic service. Her husband, Rhode Island's long-serving and much beloved Senator Claiborne Pell, died in 2009.
Cathy and I saw her speak in January at her grandson Clay's official announcement of his campaign to become the next Democratic Governor of Rhode Island. The look of pride in her eyes for her grandson was unmistakable. She told the crowd that she had not expected to ever be getting back into politics, but there she was, asking Rhode Islanders to support her grandson.
Clay issued this statement this afternoon: “Our entire family is heartbroken by my grandmother’s passing. She dedicated her life to her family and to the service of others. From her work in support of the arts, education, and her humanitarian service, she was a beacon of hope to many. We could not have asked for a better parent or grandparent than Mimi. We will love and miss her more than words can express.”
Rep. James Langevin sent us this statement: "Senator Claiborne Pell was one of the greatest public servants in Rhode Island history, and his wife Nuala has always embodied those same values of selflessness, courage and kindness. I was proud to count the Pells as mentors and friends, and it is with a heavy heart and deep sadness that we say goodbye to Nuala. Her steadfast commitment and service to Rhode Island will never be forgotten. My thoughts and prayers are with the entire Pell family at this difficult time."