Ethelwyn Eloise (Blanchard) Patnode, 91, of North Smithfield, RI, died on May 17, 2026. Ethelwyn (known by her nickname, Tootie) was born on March 29, 1935, to Hazel (Stafford) and Howard Blanchard; she was the fourth of their five children and the only daughter. She grew up in Willsboro, NY, graduating from Willsboro High School in 1953.

In 1955, Tootie married Carl Patnode, also of Willsboro, NY. They moved from the Adirondack area to Boston so Carl could enroll at Northeastern University, courtesy of the GI bill. They lived in the Boston area for more than 20 years. Before her children were born, Tootie worked as a switchboard operator for the phone company; later, she worked on a switchboard for Ludlow Corporation. In 1979, the family relocated to Rhode Island, where Tootie worked alongside Carl in his newly acquired company, Higgins Manufacturing, until their retirement.

Tootie raised three daughters and kept an impeccable home. She also was an accomplished cook and baker, and she enjoyed reading and crafts. An organized and talented hostess, Tootie welcomed family and friends for many visits and events.

Tootie is predeceased by her husband of 67 years; Carl died in February of 2023. She is survived by her daughters: Lynne Nadeau (Michael), of Peterborough, NH; Michele Belliveau, of Chepachet, RI; and Gayle Valletta (David), of Venice, FL. She is also survived by nine grandchildren: Julie Nadeau; Claire Nadeau (Tonje); Kyle Belliveau (Elise); Kevin Belliveau; Molly Belliveau (Craig); Carly Goodell (Marty); Lucy Wynkoop (Jay); Abigail Valletta; and Leah Valletta. Her seven great-grandchildren are Aurora, Rosemary, and River Goodell; Olive, Maxwell, and Russell Wynkoop; and Rain Mendez.

Burial will be at the Rhode Island Veterans Cemetery in Exeter, RI. At Tootie’s request, there will be no services.