Barbara E. (Boitano) Rouse

born on February 5, 1937, in Providence, Rhode Island, passed away peacefully at her home in Charlestown, Rhode Island on July 13, 2026. She was 89 years old.

Barbara’s life was marked by dedication—to her family, to her faith, and to the service of others. A proud graduate of St. Xavier High School and the Community College of Rhode Island, she went on to faithfully serve her country in the United States Army, where she was stationed at both Camp David and in Japan. One of her earliest roles was as a telephone operator for the US Army, a position of such importance that she was entrusted with top secret clearance.

Her passion for caring for others led Barbara into nursing. As an LPN, she touched countless lives and worked with many different populations, including South County Hospital Nursery, Allen’s Nursing Home and the Joseph A Ladd Center. Her commitment to helping those in need led her to specialize in substance abuse nursing at VA Medical Centers and South County Hospital. She spent the twilight of her career sitting with those at risk due to addiction and mental health issues. Through her chosen work, Barbara brought comfort, care, safety, and hope to many.

Barbara’s proudest accomplishments were rooted in the love she held for her family and friends, her 40 years of sobriety, and her steadfast faith. She was a devoted communicant and participated actively in adoration groups at both St. James Chapel and St. Pius X. She cherished and loved her spiritual family including Karen, Billy, Carol, Connie, Marie, Mary, and Dottie. Her prayers for us, especially to Mary and all of the saints, were a constant in her life, guiding her actions and comforting those around her. Barbara’s pure joy was in helping others.

She is survived by her beloved son, Robert J. Rouse, Jr., and his wife, Elizabeth; her cherished grandchildren, Samuel J. Rouse and Isabella J. Rouse; her devoted brothers, John Boitano, Peter Boitano, and Robert Boitano; and her loving sister, Joan Petrone (Boitano). Barbara was predeceased by her parents, John and Ida (Barchi) Boitano; and her brother, George Boitano. 

All friends and family are invited to celebrate Barbara’s life, faith and sobriety and attend her Mass of Christian Burial on Friday, July 24, 2026 at 11am in St. James Chapel, 2079 Matunuck School House Road, Charlestown. Burial will be held at 2pm in the RI Veterans Memorial Cemetery, Exeter. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Mother of Life Center, 400 Atwells Avenue, Providence, RI 02909. www.motheroflife.org.