Annetrude Maria Raftery

Annetrude Maria Raftery, 93, of Providence, RI, daughter of the late Peter and Margarete (née Ackermann) Stein, born in Blumenau, Brazil in 1929 and raised in Koblenz, Germany, passed away August 21, 2023. 

  In 1952 she married USAF Major Bernard Martin Raftery of East Providence at St. Kastor Basilica in Koblenz. They moved to the United States in 1953, her home for the past 70 years. In 1978, she restarted her career as a visual artist, producing works held in public and private collections nationwide. She completed her degree at the Corcoran School of Art in Washington, DC, studying with Leon Berkowitz and William Christenberry. A teacher herself, she was beloved by her many painting students in the Washington DC area.  

  Following the passing of her husband of 42 years, she relocated to Providence establishing a warm, inviting home where she welcomed family and friends for 26 years. Her painting and collage work continued, inspired by her garden, the New England environment, her travels, and world events.  She turned an artistic eye to everything in her life, creating beauty and balance in everything she touched.

  She was devoted to her three sons who survive her: Andrew Stein Raftery (partner of Ned Lochaya), of Providence, RI, Bernard Patrick Raftery of Natick, MA, and Terrence Joseph Raftery (husband of Victoria Sweeney) of Reston, VA.  She is also survived by her grandchildren, Eamon Raftery-Sweeney, and Quinn Raftery-Sweeney.  Our mother’s boundless love, support, and encouragement was the foundation of who we are today.  She is remembered by her family as a most loving mother to her sons and a rare and forever cherished friend.

  A Funeral Service will be held Friday, September 8, 2023 at 11:00 A.M. at the Grace Church, 300 Westminister St., Providence, RI 02903. Calling hours respectfully omitted. A private interment will be held at Swan Point Cemetery prior to church service. 

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