Obituary: Louise M. Diraison, 88

Louise M. Diraison, 88, was born in Laz, France. She was the daughter of Therese Anna and Corentin Yves LeRoy. She was married in France in 1955 to Albert Francois Deraison, who died in 2000.

Born on a farm named Monivin in a rugged part of western France, Louise grew up speaking both Breton and French. Her farm life was spent tending sheep, picking potatoes and other hard work. In her youth, she belonged to a Breton dance group and wore traditional Breton attire.  

World War II brought occupation and deprivation to Laz. A hatmaker by trade in France, when Louise moved to New York she left that behind. She met Albert at a meeting of the French Club in New York City. After they married, they moved to Locust Valley, N.Y., where they lived happily for 30 years. Louise turned her love of cooking into a catering business.

They moved to East Greenwich upon retirement, where Louise continued to commit herself to helping others. 

She is survived by children Phillippe (Debbie) Diraison of North Kingstown, Michele Neiley of Cowesett, and Jacqueline (Patrick) Sheridan of Amherst, Mass., and seven loving grandchildren, Glenn, Tyler, Stephanie, Max, Morgan, Annick and Ian.

She allowed joy to happen.

A memorial service will take place Saturday, Dec. 1, at Hill Funeral Home on Main Street. Visiting with the family goes from 3 to 4:15 p.m. with final goodbyes from 4:15 to 5 p.m.

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