Nuala Pell, patron of the arts and humanities, dies at 89

Mrs. Nuala Pell, philanthropist and widow of the late Sen. Claiborne de Borda Pell, passed away early Sunday morning, The Providence Journal reports:

Word of her passing prompted an outpouring of tribute.

“An extraordinary woman whose grace and decency infused everything she did and everything Senator Pell did,” is how Sen. Jack Reed remembered her. “She was just a wonderful person.”

“Nuala Pell’s remarkable lifetime of public service left an indelible mark on our state,” said Sen. Sheldon Whitehouse. “Alongside her husband, Senator Claiborne Pell, she was a passionate advocate for the arts and humanities — and, above all, for the people of our Ocean State.”

To read the full article, visit The Providence Journal website.

Salve Regina University released a statement over the weekend:

“We are deeply saddened at the loss of our dear friend Nuala Pell who served Salve Regina University faithfully for so many years as a trustee,” said Sister Jane Gerety, the University’s president.  “She was a tireless advocate for our students, and through her support of the Pell Center, named for her late-husband Senator Claiborne Pell, connected our students to the world.”

Gerety continued, “We had the opportunity to celebrate Nuala’s life last summer when we established a leadership program for our students in her name.  Her humility at the thought of an event to honor her stood in sharp contrast to the outpouring of affection for Nuala from far and wide.  We know we are not alone in mourning her passing today.”

Pell Center Executive Director Jim Ludes added: “Mrs. Pell touched lives across Rhode Island with her humanity, her grace, and her spirit of service.  The Pell Center is dedicated to carrying on the ideals by which she and her husband lived their lives.  We are saddened today, but grateful for all she shared with us in her remarkable life.”