Noreen (O'Connell) Rheaume, a loving mother, cherished grandmother, and lifelong nurse, passed away peacefully on April 22, 2026, at the age of 78, surrounded by the family she so deeply loved. She dedicated her life to caring for others, both at home and at the bedside, and leaves behind a legacy of compassion, strength, and quiet humor.

Born in 1948, Noreen grew up with a strong sense of purpose. She was the daughter of Leonard and Catherine O'Connell, both of whom served in World War II in the health professions. She went on to pursue a career in nursing, attending Merrimack College and the Lawrence General Hospital School of Nursing. For Noreen, nursing was more than a profession; it was how she navigated the world.

She began her career as a nurse on the medical-surgical floor and later became an emergency room nurse, where she thrived in the fast-paced environment. Known for her calm presence and steady hands, she had an incredible ability to help people feel seen and safe during their most vulnerable moments. Noreen later became Director of Staff Development at Salem Haven Nursing Home, where she devoted many years of service. Her residents received not only skilled medical care but also dignity, comfort, and kindness. She was a fierce advocate for both her patients and her staff, a trusted mentor, and a steady leader. Deeply respected by patients, colleagues, and all who knew her, Noreen fulfilled her passion for education by founding CNA Educational Services, where she trained and certified the next generation of nursing assistants throughout the state of New Hampshire.

Outside of work Noreen loved to go horseback riding, and found joy in getting together for lunch with her friends and dinners with family.  Hampton Beach was her happy place, a source of peace and perspective where the sound of the waves, salty air, and sunshine were all she needed. Evenings on the deck were another favorite, spent enjoying great seafood and a refreshing beverage with family and friends while watching fireworks. Her grandchildren, Emily and Grace, proudly told everyone for years that their "Grandy" owned Hampton Beach!  At home, a cup of Lipton decaffeinated hot tea was never far from her side, along with a great book. Above all else, Noreen was proud of her family and always looked forward to hosting every holiday through the years.

Noreen was preceded in death by her sister, Sheila O'Connell; her son, John Rheaume, son-in-law, Leonard Wilson, and her former husband and cherished family member, Ronald Rheaume.

She is survived by her children, Brenda Rheaume-Wilson and Patrick Curtin; her grandchildren, Emily, Grace, and Devin; her great-grandchild, Gemma; her daughters-in-law, Jennifer Costello and Nancy Rheaume, along with many nieces, nephews, and cousins.

Family and friends are invited to gather for visitation on Wednesday, April 29th from 4:00-7:00 p.m. at Douglas & Johnson Funeral Home, 214 Main Street, Salem, NH.   A funeral Mass will be celebrated on Thursday, April 30th at 10:30 a.m. at St. Joseph Church, 40 Main Street, Salem, NH.  Burial will follow in Pine Grove Cemetery, 327 Main Street, Salem, NH.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in Noreen's name to the Mass General Cancer Center   at https://giving.massgeneral.org/donate/cancer-center.

Funeral arrangements are in the care of Douglas & Johnson Funeral Home.  To send a message of condolence to the family, please view the obituary at www.douglasandjohnson.com