Marjorie Ann (Buteau) Whetstone

Johnston – Marjorie Ann (Buteau) Whetstone, 93, of Johnston and formerly of Lincoln passed away peacefully with family by her side Tuesday, November 9, 2021, at West View Nursing & Rehabilitation Center, West Warwick. She was the wife of the late Elmer E. “Rip” Whetstone.

   Born in Pawtucket, a daughter of the late Walter and Ella (Theileg) Buteau, she had lived in Lincoln for many years, and had lived in Florida before moving back to Rhode Island and settling in Johnston.

   Marge had many paths in her career.  She started as a telephone operator in her late teen years, was a homemaker while raising her children, and rejoined the workforce later.  Her love of and skill at sewing took her through many avenues, from Jockey Silks for her uncles’ business, to bridal veils and gowns at Belle Bridle of Pawtucket.  Sewing also brought her into the sail-making business with the former Rowse Sails.  At some point during this buffet of interesting jobs, she also worked as an agent for John Hancock Life Insurance.  She and Rip retired in 1990 when they started RV-ing, they bought lots in Emerald Pointe RV Resort in Zephyrhills FL, where she made many friends.  While there she was part of a quilting group who would make quilts for the VA Hospital, and a Foster Children group. While in Florida, Rip became Santa at Disney, and Marge joined him, working alongside him as Mrs. Santa Claus at the American Pavilion in Epcot.

   She is survived by her four children, William E. and Jolene Whetstone of Benson, AZ, twin daughters, Joyce Whetstone and Alvaro Rodriguez of Warwick and Joanne W. and Ron Nolen of Reading, PA, and John E. and Susan Whetstone of Chepachet; two brothers, Ralph Buteau of Pawtucket, and William Buteau of Warwick; eight grandchildren; twelve great grandchildren; and many nieces and nephews. She was the sister of the late Arthur Buteau, Walter Buteau, Robert Buteau, Earl Buteau and Joseph Buteau.

   Her services are private at her request. In lieu of flowers, Contributions in her memory to Salvation Army, 102 High Street, Pawtucket, RI 02860 would be appreciated. For Guest Book, please visit www.bellowsfuneralchapel.com. Arrangements entrusted with Bellows Funeral Chapel, 160 River Road, Lincoln.

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