Roberta "Bobbi" (Woodhull) Violette

Newport, NH: Roberta (Bobbi) Woodhull Violette, 81, passed away at The Seasons at Summercrest surrounded by family on December 4, 2017.  Born to Remington B. and Gladys Woodhull on November 30, 1936, Bobbi grew up in Newport and lived there all her life.  She graduated from Towle High School in 1954.  She went to Chamberlain College School of Retailing in Boston.  After graduation, she moved to Portsmouth and worked for a clothing store on Market Street dressing windows.

In 1957 she married Vern Violette.  They were married 62 years.  Along with their family, Vern and Bobbi owned and operated Woodhull's Market and later the larger supermarket, Violette's Supermarket.  They ran that store for 10 years.  She then became the costume designer for Charles Massey's plays at the Opera House in Newport.  Bobbi loved working at the Opera House with Charles Massey where her talents were showcased.  Even to her last days, Charles has stayed in touch with her.

Following in her father's footsteps, she was long-time supporter of Kurn Hattin Homes for children.  She served as President of the Board and was a Trustee for many years.

At their Balsam Road house, she had the most beautiful flower gardens, which she took great pride in.  She and Vern were very social and often had parties and get-togethers at their home.  Vern would always say, she is the best hostess ever.  She loved people and they loved her. 

After selling the store, Bobbi and Vern finally went on vacation.  They traveled many places with close friends and family.  Her bags were always packed.  She was a good golfer and enjoyed playing with her friends.  They owned a home in Kennebunkport, Maine.  She always had the kids and grandchildren come and stay there.  She enjoyed that more than anything.  Her grandkids called her Mae.

Her family will remember her as being loving, caring and fun spirited.  She always made them feel safe and happy.  She provided them with everything a child could need.  She was the best shopping buddy and best friend.  Her kids' parting words are, "Our love for you is beyond words.  We love you with all our hearts and are so proud to call you our Mom."

Bobbi was predeceased by her parents, Remington B. and Gladys Woodhull.

Surviving family includes her husband Vern, sister, Elizabeth Maiola and husband, Tony, daughter, Jill Kathan and husband, Dennis of Newport, son, Dana Violette and wife, Dodi of Newport, daughter, Gina Violette and significant other, Scott Belloni of Andover, NH, granddaughter, Kristie Kathan Howe and husband, Buddy and their soon-to-be son of Newport, grandson, Andrew Kathan and fiancé, Stefanie Muntyan of Newton, MA, grandson, Corey Violette of Newport, grandson, Curtis Blodgett of Littleton, CO, granddaughter, Olivia Blodgett of Andover, NH, great-granddaughter, Ava Mae Violette of Newport, and many nieces, nephews, extended family members and life-long friends.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Kurn Hattin Homes at P.O. Box 127, 708 Kurn Hattin Road Westminster, VT 05158, Lake Sunapee Region VNA and Hospice at P.O. Box 2209 New London, NH 03257, or to the Mass/NH Chapter of the Alzheimer's Association at 309 Waverley Oaks Road Waltham, MA 02452.

A celebration of Bobbi's life, including a reception, will take place at the South Congregational Church in Newport at 11:00 AM on Saturday January 6, 2018.

Many thanks for the wonderful and very professional people at The Seasons. The care they gave Bobbi was above and beyond.  

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