Karen C. Newman

Karen Corrine Newman (Laboissonniere), 76, passed away peacefully on August 17, 2025, in Boston, Massachusetts. Born on April 11, 1949, in Providence, Rhode Island, she lived a life marked by devotion to her family, pride in her country, and a deep appreciation for history and tradition.

Karen graduated from Smithfield High School as part of the Class of 1968 and went on to attend Rhode Island Junior College, where she trained as a dental assistant. Over the years, she held several positions that reflected her strong work ethic and warm personality. Among her favorite roles was working for Hallmark, where she took great joy in stocking greeting cards at local retail stores. She also worked at Chepachet Pharmacy and Benny's Home and Auto in Greenville, forming lasting connections with coworkers and customers alike.

Karen was a loving and caring wife to Earl K. Newman Jr., with whom she shared 52 cherished years. Together they raised two sons: Earl K. Newman III and Todd Newman. She welcomed into her heart their wives, Kyle and Ericka Newman, and found immense joy in being a grandmother to Colin Newman.

A proud American through and through, Karen was affectionately known as the “flag police” among those who knew her best—a title she wore with honor. Her unwavering respect for the American flag and the armed services earned her a Citation of Appreciation from the Veterans of Foreign Wars in 2018 for exhibiting outstanding citizenship through the display of the United States Flag.

Karen’s hobbies reflected her love for beauty, creativity, and history. She enjoyed crafting intricate pieces by hand, tending lovingly to her garden, and exploring antique shops in search of treasures from the past. Her passion for all things historical was matched only by her love for spending time with family—moments she treasured above all else.

She is also remembered by her brother Dennis Laboissonniere. Karen was predeceased by her parents, Helen and Raymond W. Laboissonniere, as well as her brother Raymond Laboissonniere.

Karen Corrine Newman will be remembered as a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, sister, and friend whose warmth touched many lives. May her memory bring comfort to those who knew and loved her. A Wake will be held on August 25, 2025, from 4pm to 7pm at Robbins Funeral Home 2251 Mineral Spring Avenue in North Providence, RI. In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to charities that touched her heart, Boston Children’s Hospital and The Wounded Warrior Project.